India’s first indigenous light tank to strengthen high-altitude defences

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday said that India’s newly developed Zorawar light tank named after the legendary Dogra military commander General Zorawar Singh will significantly strengthen the country’s border security and act as a “force multiplier” for the armed forces, especially in sensitive high-altitude regions.

Sinha made the remarks while paying homage to General Zorawar Singh on his martyrdom day. He said the decision to name the tank after the iconic warrior not only honours his legacy but also aims to inspire future generations with his courage, leadership and strategic brilliance.

Officials said the Zorawar tank is India’s first fully indigenous advanced light tank, purpose-built for high-altitude mountain warfare, particularly along the China border. It has been jointly developed by the DRDO’s Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T).

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that the tank underwent successful trials earlier this year at Niyoma in Ladakh located at an altitude of 4,200 metres as well as in the deserts of Jaisalmer, demonstrating its adaptability across extreme terrains. He noted that the project was completed in a record time of just two years, reflecting India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to Sinha, the 25-tonne light tank has been engineered for swift mobility in mountainous and border areas, offering the armed forces much-needed agility. The platform carries modern features including artificial intelligence-enabled systems, an advanced defensive suite, amphibious capability, and a 105 mm gun. It is also equipped with anti-drone measures, allowing it to counter emerging battlefield threats effectively.

Sinha said the tank’s development ensures India has an answer to China’s Type 15 lightweight tank, which has been deployed in Tibet. The Zorawar’s airlift capability and rapid deployment features are expected to plug critical gaps in India’s mountain warfare preparedness.

Paying tribute to General Zorawar Singh, the 19th-century Dogra commander known for his campaigns in Ladakh and western Tibet, the LG said his life continues to inspire courage, resolve and commitment to national service. He urged citizens to emulate the late commander’s values and work collectively towards building a more just, empowered and peaceful society.

Officials added that prototypes of the Zorawar tank are undergoing detailed trials, with induction into the Army expected by 2027. Once operational, the system is expected to bolster India’s combat readiness in high-altitude regions and strengthen overall national security.