SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s indigenous defense manufacturing is set to witness a new chapter as Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd (ANVL) plans to form a joint venture (JV) with Russian firms Rosoboronexport (ROE) and Hindustan Power Corporation (HPC) to manufacture a Light Tank for the Indian Army. The JV will be majority-owned by ANVL and India Optel Limited (IOL).
This development is likely to introduce a new contender in the race for the Indian Army’s requirement of 295 Light Tanks under the ‘Make-I’ category. Based on the Sprut-SD design, the proposed Indian Light Tank is expected to compete directly with the DRDO-L&T developed Zorawar Light Tank, which has already commenced trials and secured a first-mover advantage.
The Army has initiated procurement proceedings for 59 Zorawar Light Tanks, but the fate of the remaining 300 units remains uncertain. While Zorawar is poised to be a frontrunner, the potential entry of the Sprut-SD based Light Tank is expected to intensify competition.
This strategic move by ANVL signifies India’s growing inclination towards domestic defense production and technological collaborations. It is anticipated that the JV will not only cater to the Indian Army’s needs but also explore export opportunities for the indigenously developed Light Tank.
As the Light Tank segment gains momentum, the Indian Army is likely to benefit from a wider array of options, leading to enhanced operational capabilities and self-reliance in armored vehicle technology.
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