Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Armed Systems Complex of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in Surat on Friday, where he inspected a range of futuristic indigenous weapons and defence systems. Among the highlights was the Zorawar light battle tank, India's first indigenously developed highly agile tank designed for mountainous terrains.
Zorawar Light Tank: Key Features
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with L&T, the Zorawar tank took just 24 months to develop a prototype after government sanction. Weighing around 25 tonnes, it is significantly lighter than the Arjun Mk-1 (58.5 tonnes) and T-90 (46.5 tonnes). Its light weight, exceptional mobility, and rapid strike capability make it ideal for deployment in the Ladakh region along the China border.
The tank has completed initial developmental trials and is undergoing intensive user trials with the Indian Army. Induction is expected by 2029. The Army has placed an initial order for 59 units, with a total requirement of 354 tanks. Named after General Zorawar Singh, the 19th-century commander who conquered Ladakh and Tibet, the tank can cross rivers using water-jet propulsion, operate at high altitudes, and fire advanced missiles. It features a 105-mm calibre gun turret with an auto-loader and a remote-controlled 7.62-mm machine gun, and can fire gun-tube-launched anti-tank guided missiles.
Other Futuristic Technologies
The Hazira facility also showcased the TEJASTRA High Energy Laser System, an indigenous 1,500-horsepower tank engine and transmission, and a 30-mm unmanned turret for the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV). PM Modi was presented with a scale model of a submarine believed to be the first image of India's conventional submarine under Project 76, a DRDO-led initiative to design and build next-generation diesel-electric attack submarines for the Indian Navy, maximizing domestic technology.
PM Modi's Remarks
After the visit, PM Modi posted on X: 'This afternoon, I went to the L&T complex at Hazira. Witnessed some of their pioneering innovations across different sectors. The role played by L&T in furthering self-reliance in the defence sector is commendable.' He also noted the exhibition showcased India's growing capabilities under the 'Make in India' initiative, promoting indigenous production.
Additional Exhibits
Also on display were the K9 Vajra-T self-propelled 155-mm artillery system, manufactured by L&T with South Korea and already deployed in eastern Ladakh, and the L-70 mm gun platform, which played a crucial role in shooting down drones during Op Sindoor.
