DRDO unveils country’s indigenous light tank Zorawar

• The prototype of the country’s indigenous light tank Zorawar is ready and will soon be subjected to extensive trials
• The tank was jointly developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) along with Larsen & Toubro as the lead integrator.

Highlights:

• The tank is currently powered by a Cummins engine, and the DRDO has taken up a project to develop a new engine domestically.
• It has been developed from the drawing board within the shortest possible time and capable of operation in the most challenging environment on earth:
  • Extreme weather and extreme height with minimal logistic support in high-altitude areas along the northern border.
• The first prototype is ready after factory acceptance.
• The tank is planned to be handed over to the Army for user trials by August 2025.
• The DRDO has taken up a project to develop a power pack for the light tank as a new 1,400-HP engine is also under development for the Arjun Mk1A main battle tank.
• Following this, the DRDO and the L&T teamed up to develop a light tank indigenously along with many Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises who have been roped in for various sub-system development to encourage indigenous development of Defence weapon platforms through industry.

Prelims Takeaway:

• DRDO
• DAC