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SOURCE: AFI

In a recent statement, J.D. Patil, CEO and Managing Director of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), revealed that the company initially proposed a K9 Vajra-based chassis for the Indian Army’s light tank program. However, the Army opted for a lighter platform weighing around 25 tons, prompting L&T and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to develop an entirely new chassis for the Zorawar light tank.

L&T’s K9 Vajra, a 155mm self-propelled howitzer system, has already seen success with its induction into the Indian Army. The company initially aimed to leverage this proven platform for a light tank variant. However, the K9 Vajra-based chassis faced challenges.

A light tank based on the K9 Vajra chassis would have exceeded 30 tons, making it unsuitable for high-altitude terrains and regions with limited mobility. The additional weight would restrict deployment flexibility, a critical requirement for light tanks operating in rugged terrains, such as the Himalayan border areas.

Acknowledging the Army’s preference for a more versatile platform, L&T collaborated with DRDO to design a new chassis specifically tailored for the Zorawar light tank program. Key features of the Zorawar include that Zorawar weighs around 25 tons, allowing deployment in high-altitude and logistically challenging terrains.

The Zorawar light tank, with its lightweight design and robust capabilities, is set to become a cornerstone of India’s high-altitude armored operations, showcasing the nation’s ability to innovate in response to evolving defense needs.