You dont have javascript enabled! Please enable it! Zorawar Light Tank Showcased at French Army’s 27th BIM Event Amid Growing India-France Defence Ties - Indian Defence Research Wing
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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s indigenous Zorawar light tank recently gained international attention when it was featured in a presentation slide on mountain warfare equipment during an event hosted by the French Army’s 27th Brigade d’Infanterie de Montagne (27th BIM).

The 27th BIM, a specialized mountain infantry brigade, highlighted the Zorawar among other global systems relevant to high-altitude combat, reflecting its recognition as a notable development in this niche domain. While this does not necessarily indicate procurement interest from France, the inclusion underscores the tank’s growing profile as trials progress, with induction into the Indian Army anticipated by late 2027.

The Zorawar, a 25-tonne light tank jointly developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), is designed specifically for mountain warfare. Named after the legendary 19th-century Dogra General Zorawar Singh, famed for his campaigns in the Himalayas, the tank addresses the Indian Army’s need for a highly mobile, firepower-rich platform capable of operating in rugged, high-altitude terrains like Ladakh. Equipped with a 105mm gun from Belgium’s John Cockerill, advanced electronics, and a high power-to-weight ratio, the Zorawar has demonstrated its prowess in desert and high-altitude trials, including live-fire exercises at over 4,200 meters in Ladakh.

The 27th BIM’s focus on mountain warfare aligns with Zorawar’s design philosophy, as France maintains significant capabilities for alpine operations, including in the Alps and overseas territories. The brigade’s event likely aimed to survey cutting-edge equipment worldwide, with Zorawar’s inclusion signalling its relevance to such environments.

However, there is no concrete evidence suggesting that the French Army is actively pursuing its procurement. Posts on X and other platforms have noted the tank’s mention in the presentation but emphasize that it appears to be an overview of global developments rather than a firm expression of intent.

In contrast, the French Army has recently shown tangible interest in India’s Pinaka Guided Rocket System, which boasts an impressive range of 90 kilometres. Developed by DRDO and produced by Indian industry partners, the Pinaka has evolved into a precision-guided artillery system, making it an attractive option for modern militaries. France’s interest in the Pinaka reflects a broader trend of growing defence cooperation between New Delhi and Paris, evidenced by deals like the Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines. Whether this interest extends to the Zorawar light tank, however, remains speculative at this stage.

The Zorawar is currently in the final stages of developmental trials, with the Indian Army set to receive prototypes for user trials in 2025. These trials, spanning 12 to 18 months, will test the tank’s performance across summer, winter, and high-altitude conditions, ensuring its readiness for induction by late 2027. The Indian Army has placed an initial order for 59 units. It plans to procure 354 tanks to bolster its capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, where the People’s Liberation Army has deployed its own ZTQ-15 light tanks.

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