The Indian Army plans to augment its armoured mobility through a two-pronged approach, by inducting Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) co-developed with the US under ‘Make in India’, and by using indigenously designed and developed ICVs by the DRDO in collaboration with indigenous private industry Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd)
PAGE 6
Light Tank Zorawar: A Grandeur Effort on Indigenous MilTech Collaboration; Trials to Prove
The unfolding of Light Tank Zorawar is certainly a milestone for indigenous military technology collaboration, especially with a domestic private entity (L&T) backed up by DRDO. The light tank now in the final stage, will prove some of the complex demonstration and firepower at high altitude areas.
Manish Kumar Jha
GENERAL UPENDRA DWIVEDI, NEW CHIEF OF THE ARMY STAFF
General Upendra Dwivedi took over as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on June 30, 2024. General Upendra Dwivedi is an accomplished military leader, with 40 years of service in the Armed Forces. He was commissioned into Regiment of Jammu & Kashmir Rifles in 1984. The General officer has a unique distinction of balanced command as well as staff exposure across Northern, Eastern and Western theatres, in varied operational environment.
The General officer has a deep understanding of modern and emerging technologies in the security domain, and his vision finds congruence to the ongoing pursuit of the Indian Army to fulfil its modernisation and capability development needs through Atmanirbharta.
The Future of MBTs
transformed by the rise of the Man-Machine Alliance as Artificial Intelligence enhances the capabilities of MBT crews by improving situational awareness, automating routine tasks, and facilitating faster decision-making
THE RUMBLE OF TANK engines may be a familiar sound on the battlefield, but the future of MBTs is poised for a revolution unlike anything witnessed before. While the core principles of firepower, mobility, and protection will remain the cornerstones of tank design, the battlefield of tomorrow will see the rise of a potent partnership – the fusion of human expertise with the cold, calculating power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This powerful alliance promises to transform the role of MBTs, ushering in an era of unprecedented lethality, battlefield awareness, and tactical flexibility.
The Future of MBTs
The future of MBTs lies in a powerful symbiosis of human expertise and cutting-edge technology. AI will augment the capabilities of MBT crews, enhancing situational aware-
ness, automating routine tasks, and facilitating faster decision-making. Combined with advancements in active protection systems, hybrid powertrains, and new materials for armour, MBTs will continue to be dominant forces on the battlefield for decades to come. However, the human element of judgment and strategic decision-making will remain paramount in ensuring responsible and effective use of these powerful machines.
AI Revolution
Imagine an MBT crew no longer struggling with limited visibility or the cognitive overload of processing a torrent of battlefield data. AI systems, acting as tireless digital sentinels, will continuously scan the environment using a panoply of advanced sensors – radar, thermal sights, and a network of interconnected drones. This real-time data stream will be fed into a central AI hub, which will then analyse and synthesise it, creating a comprehensive 360-degree pic-
ture of the battlefield. Gone will be the fog of war; instead, crews will be presented with a clear, digital representation of the surrounding terrain, enemy positions, and potential threats. This enhanced situational awareness will allow for faster identification and prioritisation of targets, enabling crews to react with lightning speed.
Autonomous Targeting
The role of the MBT crew will evolve beyond just aiming and firing the main gun. AI algorithms, capable of learning and adapting in real-time, will take over the oftengruelling task of target acquisition and fire control. Imagine an MBT autonomously locking onto enemy vehicles, calculating the optimal firing solution, and unleashing a devastating barrage with pinpoint accuracy – all within a fraction of a second. This not only reduces the risk to exposed crews but also allows for faster engagement during the chaotic moments of a firefight.
ROHIT GOEL
Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan
Indian Army got a new Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) with General Upendra Dwivedi taking over as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff on June 30, 2024. SP Guide Publications, congratulate General Dwivedi on his appointment and wish him all the success in his new role!
General Dwivedi takes over as the COAS, at a time when the global geo-strategic environment remains dynamic, with the challenges in the security domain becoming more pronounced due to technological advancements and ever-changing character of modern warfare. The General Officer has a deep understanding of modern and emerging technologies in the security domain, and possesses a thoughtful approach of harnessing and integrating cutting edge technologies into military systems to enhance operational effectiveness. His impetus would be to augment infusion of critical technologies by leveraging the nation’s vibrant, capable and productive technology eco-system. Under his leadership, the Indian Army seems poised for glorious days ahead!
But the power of AI extends beyond individual tanks. Imagine a platoon of MBTs operating as a single, coordinated entity. AI-powered communication systems will enable these machines to seamlessly share targeting data, anticipate enemy movements, and execute complex manoeuvres in perfect unison. This “platoon mind” will allow MBTs to outmanoeuvre and overwhelm enemy forces with a level of tactical brilliance previously thought impossible.
Active Protection
The future MBT won’t be just about offensive capabilities; it will also be a fortress on wheels, bristling with cutting-edge active protection systems (APS). These high-tech shields will be designed to intercept and neutralise incoming threats before they can even reach the armour. Imagine a sophisticated radar system detecting an anti-tank missile hurtling towards the MBT. In a split second, the APS springs into action, launching a countermeasure – a precisely timed explosion or a high-velocity projectile – that disintegrates the incoming missile mid-air. This impenetrable shell will significantly enhance MBT survivability in the face of ever-evolving anti-tank weaponry.
Drone Swarms
The future MBT won’t be a lone wolf on the battlefield. Imagine these behemoths deploying drone swarms from specially designed launch bays. These drones, acting as the MBT’s robotic eyes and ears, can perform a multitude of tasks. They can establish a protective perimeter around the tank, acting as a first line of defence against enemy infantry or light armoured vehicles. These robotic scouts can also venture deep into enemy territory, gathering valuable intel and relaying it back to the MBT crew, extending their situational awareness beyond the immediate horizon.
Hybrid Powertrains
The relentless pursuit of mobility and operational range will lead to a paradigm shift
Future MBTs will feature cutting-edge active protection systems designed to intercept and neutralise incoming threats, significantly enhancing survivability
In an ‘Exclusive’, SP Guide’s Manish Jha travelled to Bhutan for an interaction with the Prime Minister of Bhutan over a range of issues which further reaffirm Bhutan’s historic bilateral relations with India. In his exclusive interview to Manish Kumar Jha in Thimphu, Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan talks about various issues and the roadmap for Bhutan, embracing new, and advanced technologies for emerging Bhutan.
This issue of the SP’s Land Forces focuses on the development and modernisation of “Armoured” forces! Technological enhancements of war-fighting machines are redefining the roles that they will play in the future. Our lead story by Rohit Goel is the role Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) will play in the Future Battlefield that will be transformed by the
rise of the Man-Machine alliance as Artificial Intelligence enhances the capabilities of MBT crews by improving situational awareness, automating routine tasks, and facilitating faster decision-making.
Another area of Armour modernisation is the Indian Army’s plans to augment its armoured mobility through a two-pronged approach, by inducting Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) co-developed with the US under ‘Make in India’, and by using indigenously designed and developed ICVs by the DRDO in collaboration with indigenous private industry. Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd) reports on these developments.
In light of the face-off with the Chinese in East Ladakh, the requirement for a ‘Light Tank’ was being severely felt by the Indian Army. Recently, DRDO and L&T
announced the advanced stage of trials of the Indigenous Light Tank Zorawar. The unfolding of Light Tank Zorawar is certainly a milestone for indigenous military technology collaboration of DRDO with a domestic private sector manufacturer. Manish Jha brings us details on the development of this light tank that is now in the final stage and will prove some of the complex demonstration and firepower at high altitude areas. All this and with a lot more. Happy Reading!!
in MBT propulsion systems. The familiar roar of diesel engines might be joined by the silent hum of electric motors, ushering in the era of hybrid powertrains. This potent combination offers a multitude of advantages. Electric motors can provide a significant boost in fuel efficiency, especially during low-speed manoeuvring or urban combat situations. This translates to longer operational ranges and reduced reliance on cumbersome fuel supply lines. But the benefits go beyond just fuel efficiency. Hybrid powertrains offer the potential for near-silent operation, allowing MBTs to employ ambush tactics more effectively or manoeuvre undetected in urban environments. Additionally, electric motors can deliver instantaneous bursts of torque and power, propelling these multi-ton behemoths with surprising agility during critical manoeuvres.
Balancing Power with Responsibility
The rise of AI-powered MBTs presents a compelling ethical dilemma. While autonomous weapon systems promise faster reaction times and superior battlefield awareness, the spectre of unintended consequences and the potential for loss of human control loom large. The decision to engage targets and unleash the destructive power of these machines should ultimately reside with human operators. However, AI
can serve as a powerful force multiplier, assisting humans in making faster, more informed decisions in the heat of battle. Strict protocols and international regulations will be crucial in ensuring the responsible development and deployment of these autonomous capabilities.
The Human Element
The future battlefield, despite the advancements in AI and automation, will not be devoid of human presence. There will always be situations where the adaptability, ingenuity, and moral compass of a human crew member will prove invaluable. Imagine an MBT encountering an unforeseen obstacle or a complex tactical situation not envisaged by AI protocols. In such scenarios, the crew’s ability to think outside the box and improvise will be the key to overcoming challenges and achieving mission objectives. Furthermore, the human element of empathy and understanding the nuances of warfare will remain crucial in distinguishing combatants from civilians and minimising collateral damage.
The Machine-Man Alliance: A New Era of Armoured Warfare
The future of MBTs is not about replacing human soldiers with machines. Instead, it’s about forging a powerful alliance between the two. AI will augment the capabili-
AI algorithms will take over target acquisition and fire control, allowing MBTs to autonomously lock onto enemy vehicles and unleash precise attacks within a fraction of a second
ties of MBT crews, enhancing situational awareness, automating routine tasks, and facilitating faster decision-making. Human operators will continue to provide the critical elements of judgment, strategic thinking, and moral responsibility. This potent partnership, this “machine-man alliance,” will usher in a new era of armoured warfare, where MBTs will operate with unprecedented lethality, tactical brilliance, and survivability on the battlefield. As these technological advancements unfold, the true test will lie in harnessing this immense power responsibly and ethically, ensuring that these machines remain tools for security and never become instruments of indiscriminate destruction. SP
JAYANT BARANWAL Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
The future of MBT propulsion systems includes hybrid powertrains, offering increased fuel efficiency, near-silent operation, and improved agility
“Our
Focus and Priority
are to Nurture the
Friendship with India
when it comes to
International Relations”
— Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan
In a very exclusive interaction, Manish Kumar Jha speaks with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay in Thimphu, Bhutan over the range of issues which will further reaffirm the historic bilateral relations with India
PIB
INDIA AND BHUTAN ARE the closest partners. In fact, India, and Bhutan’s partnership span across economic, security as well as cultural ties. The historic partnership is unfolding in a new era in different dimensions. Although small in size, Bhutan holds a unique position providing an alternative model of development and despite the economic pressure and dimensions within, Bhutan is sticking towards its sustainability programme.
Manish Jha (Jha): India-Bhutan relations are the closest between the two neighbours despite deferring in size vastly. What is behind such relations?
Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay (PM Tobgay): Yes, we are a close neighbour and family but our friendship is special. Because not just to the test of time but over the decades it has been going from strength to strength. What drives our friendship is our leadership. In this case, it is our successive enlightened monarchs who have nurtured our friendship with India and ensured that our friendship grows from strength to strength. In India, it is your successive Presidents and Prime Ministers and most recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under his tenure, the friendship between our two countries has grown to unprecedented levels. And this is why I say our friendship is special. It is unique. It is an example of good neighbourliness and good friendship for the rest of the world and that friendship is developed, nurtured, and maintained.
Jha: Prime Minister, the leadership in Bhutan in the democratic setup charted its economic development path. It is based on the alternative model of the Gross Happiness Index which is the measurement of Bhutan’s economic development. While accepted, it is also debated. Could you talk about the economic progress? How is it unfolding?
PM Tobgay: Gross national happiness puts the happiness and well-being of our people at the centre of the development agenda. Gross national happiness attempts to balance economic growth. Economic growth is important, that’s undeniable. But economic growth must be balanced with social progress equity, environmental preservation, culture and good governance. This holistic form of development is the so-called gross national happiness, and we attempt to be true to the ideals and principles of gross national happiness in developing our economy. Are we there yet? Not by a long shot! We have a lot to do in strengthening our
economy and growing our economy and in doing so we aspire to continue to be faithful to the principles and ideals across National happiness that has gotten us this far.
Jha: Bhutan’s concerns for the environment are globally recognised as the only carbonnegative country. It is also a difficult debate against the demand for urban modernisation and Industrial expansion. What is your model for future sustainability in that case?
PM Tobgay: Well, we are fortunate. And we are proud that we are. About the negative carbon country, as you pointed out, we are just 1 of 3 countries worldwide the other two being Panama and Suriname. Then being a carbon negative, we were the first to be recognized as such. We are a carbonnegative [Country] because of the enlightened leadership and enlightened policies of our kings. We are carbon-negative because of the ideals of gross national happiness.
“India and Bhutan are close neighbour and family but our friendship is special. Because not just to the test of time but over the decades it has been going from strength to strength. What drives our friendship is our leadership.”
We aspire to continue to be carbon-negative as we continue to grow in our development Journey. Urban living does not necessarily have to be environmentally destructive. We can have a middle path where people can live in an environment space which is respectful of one another and is respectful.
His Majesty, the King’s Royal vision of a city that will be spread across more than 2,000 square kilometres, which will encompass at least two of our ancient protected areas. That’s going to be carbon negative and that is going to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. To assume the middle path between urban growth, urban living and natural sustainability. In Bhutan, we have the upper hand because it is basically, an extension of gross national happiness.
Jha: Bhutan’s thrust on clean energy especially in the sectors of hydropower, solar and green hydrogen is a priority. Could you talk about the road map for further growth based on clean and green energy?
PM Tobgay: Well except for a few outliers, in the world, almost everybody has accepted, that green energy is important, that we cannot continue to depend on fossil fuels that this is bad for our planet--bad not just for the future but for ourselves closer to our home. And so, a similar intensity in focusing on green energy in Bhutan. We are blessed because in the Himalayas we have a lot of fast-flowing rivers which can generate more than 30 gigawatts of clean energy. We have generated 30,000 megawatts of clean energy and so far. While we are already exporting electricity to India. We have tapped only 7.5 per cent of our potential. We are going to accelerate the development of hydropower
production in the country. Plus, we are accelerating the development of solar.
Jha: Bhutan is also embarking on an ambitious plan towards rapid socio-economic progress and technological advancement with new and emerging technologies. What are the challenges in terms of funding and skill development? And how are you progressing? What’s your vision?
PM Tobgay: Well, we don’t have a choice. We have to adapt. Digital advancement does not just adopt digital technology but uses it in a relevant way. But remember, technology is not the goal. The idea is to leverage technology and use technology to grow mindfully and to enhance the happiness and well-being of our people. Now, because we have a small economy and a small population of just 7 lakh people, the per capita cost becomes prohibitive and this is very expensive for us. But, that said, we don’t have a choice. We must adopt and yes — relevant technologies. And for this, we must prioritise our investments and one of the priorities is digital technology.
Jha: How does Bhutan manage its diplomatic role amid such volatile situations worldwide? It’s often seen as a role model in terms of managing and navigating the clumsy geopolitics today. What is behind that secret?
PM Tobgay: Our main friend, a principal ally is India. To a large degree, our focus and our priority are to nurture the friendship with India when it comes to international relations. Besides India, we have diplomatic relations with only a select number of countries. And with them, we maintain good relations. In fact, we have very few diplomatic missions. It is only a handful of places in the world. And each of those missions look after multiple countries. And they are overstretched. But this is after all a small country, can we engage meaningfully? We sincerely deal with as many countries as possible and we use the multilateral organisations, the UN for example, to engage at a multilateral level to the extent possible. SP
This is an abridged version. For the complete version of the interview, visit www.spslandforces.com
Manish Kumar Jha is a Consulting & Contributing Editor for SP’s Aviation, SP’s Land Forces and SP’s Naval Forces and a security expert. He writes on national security, military technology, strategic affairs & policies.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Tshering Tobgay at Thimphu, in Bhutan on March 22, 2024.
PHOTOGRAPH:
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AVNL — Powering Battlefield Vehicles Through Indigenisation
Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) is planning to achieve 100 per cent indigenisation progressively by December 2025 to eliminate dependency on foreign sources for defence equipment
ARMOURED VEHICLES NIGAM
LIMITED (AVNL) is one of the seven new Defence Public Sector Undertakings. Our main products are tanks such as the Arjun, T-90 Bhishma, T-72 Ajeya, BMP-II Sarath (and their variants), the mineprotected vehicle (6x6 and 4x4), and the bridge laying tank. We are India’s only tank manufacturers and one of the oldest institutions in India’s armoured vehicles manufacturing domain. Our production units include the Heavy Vehicle Factory and Engine Factory at Avadi, Vehicle Factory Jabalpur, Ordnance Factory Medak, and Machine Tool Prototype Factory at Ambernath.
As part of our steps towards modernisation and indigenisation, all our units are actively engaged with Indian industries, academia, and iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence). Through this engagement, we are not only upgrading our existing products but also developing new products and technology. Our Indian industry partners are promoted through Make-II procedures, source development OTE (Overall Throughput Effectiveness), signing MoUs, etc. Of the 31 critical LRUs/sub-assemblies/items for indigenisation, 21 have already been sourced locally. In addition, 40 more items have
been indigenised post corporatisation and AVNL has successfully placed orders from domestic supply vendors for 221 crores. This is a testament towards our goal for Aatma Nirbhar Bharat for self-reliance in the defence sector.
An MoU between MIDHANI and AVNL for establishing an armour production facility and the indigenisation of Armoured Steel for defence applications has been established. MIDHANI is a well-known manufacturer of superalloys, titanium alloys, and special-purpose steels required for strategic sectors such as defence, space, and aeronautics. AVNL is planning to achieve 100 per cent indigenisation progressively by December 2025 to eliminate dependency on foreign sources for defence equipment.
The Indian Army has placed a contract
AVNL are India’s only tank manufacturers and one of the oldest institutions in India’s armoured vehicles manufacturing domain
for the supply of 464 T-90 MK-III tanks, valued at approximately ` 18,000 crores. This is part of the other orders AVNL has bagged for ` 32,000 crores, such as Kavach, BMP-II, Arjun MK-II, T-90 Bhishma, T-72 Ajeya, BLT, and MPV 6x6. These products and numbers are evidence of our commitment, creativity, and steadfast determination to protect our nation and support our armed forces. Additionally, we have successfully overhauled major critical assemblies of the MBT Arjun, which exemplifies our technical prowess and our commitment to self-reliance.
AVNL has recently signed a significant contract with the Indian Army to upgrade a fleet of 693 ICV BMP-II Sarath vehicles. These upgrades will improve the firepower, night-enabled Fire Control System (FCS), automatic target tracking, nextgeneration missile firing capabilities, and other advanced features. BMP2M has been developed through an in-house R&D project and has undergone rigorous field trials to ensure its performance.
The weight of the T-72 tank has been increased from 41 tonnes to 44 tonnes by adding various value-added modules. To achieve this, the power of the engine was increased by making changes to the intake system, exhaust system, and cooling & lubrication system while keeping the core
engine components the same. The uprated engine successfully underwent 400 hours of endurance testing. It has been integrated into the existing vehicle compartment with minimal modifications required.
To accommodate the 1000 hp engine, a more efficient air filtration system and compact cooling system have been integrated within the existing vehicle compartment. The uprated engine completed user trials in desert conditions in summer as well as medium fording evaluation. All the upgrade modules, including Turbocharger, Charge air cooler, Water pump, Exhaust manifold, oil filter, air filtration system, and cooling system, are locally available. This upgrade is proven, easy to implement, time-saving, cost-effective, and indigenous. The Army plans to upgrade the current fleet of T-72 Tanks with a 1000 hp engine and its associated systems through the ‘MAKE’ category. Transfer of Technology (ToT) for the upgradation of T-72 Tanks with an uprated 1000 hp engine and its associated systems is available to Indian industries.
AVNL’s vision is to become a global leader in armoured vehicle manufacturing and reach a pinnacle of $1 billion by FY 2025-2026. SP
Indian Army has placed a contract for the supply of 464 T-90 MK-III tanks
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ARMOURED / MODERNISATION
Combat Transportation & Fire Power
The Indian Army plans to augment its armoured mobility through a two-pronged approach, by inducting Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) co-developed with the US under ‘Make in India’, and by using indigenously designed and developed ICVs by the DRDO in collaboration with indigenous private industry
LT GENERAL P.C. KATOCH (RETD)
AS HAS BEEN REPORTED earlier, co-production of the Stryker armoured vehicles in India in conjunction with the US was in the offing. Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane had said during a joint media briefing with Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra on the 2+2 dialogue co-chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and their American counterparts Lloyd Austin and Antony Blinken. “An initial offer on the (Stryker) infantry combat vehicle has come from the US. We have expressed our interest in discussing it further to take the co-production part ahead,” said Aramane. He also said that the proposed deals for the joint production of GE Aerospace’s F414 engines in the country and the acquisition of next-generation armed drones from the US are on track.
Aramane had further said, “Our indus trial and military teams will work with their US counterparts and come up with a con crete plan in this regard (joint production of Stryker vehicles.” He also added that discus sions on the armoured vehicles were taking place under the roadmap for future defence industrial cooperation concluded by the two countries in June 2023. The roadmap seeks to fast-track technology cooperation and co-production in critical areas such as air combat and land mobility systems; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; munitions, and the undersea domain.
Some Strykers are fitted with 30mm cannon. The secondary armament is 12.7mm M2 and 7.62mm M240 machine guns (on M1128 Mobile Gun System). The engine is Caterpillar C7 350hp (250 kW). Operational range of the Stryker is 500 km and maximum speed is 97 km/h.
The co-production under ‘Make in India’ will naturally have to meet the specific requirement of the Indian Army. This will include incorporating a more powerful
in the challenging terrains. The Indian Army’s plan reportedly involves the development and production of a limited number of (around 100) Stryker ICVs initially, with potential for further orders up to 300 specially designed for Indian requirements.
A crucial item of the deal includes Transfer of Technology (ToT) to India; to enable domestic production of Stryker ICVs by private Indian companies for a more self-reliant ecosystem. Here the question is
hold on to part of it in order to continue ‘coproduction’ indefinitely? The doubt remains because in the case of the GE Aerospace’s F414 engine, the critical technology of the inner core is NOT being transferred to India despite the agreement of 100 per cent ToT.
Notably, the US offer for the Stryker ICV first came in 2000 (not in 2023). But India did not take the offer because of the DRDO promise to develop an indigenous
Concurrently, ‘Nikkei Asia’, reporting on the US-India deal to co-produce the Stryker armoured vehicle in India, had said that India has become a full member of the Middle East naval coalition, thereby expanding its global role.
Stryker ICVs under ‘Make in India’ Recent news reports indicate that the Indian Army is looking at a two-pronged approach to augment its armoured mobility. The planning is to induct the Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) co-developed with the US under ‘Make in India’, as well as the indigenously designed and developed ICVs by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in concert with indigenous private industry?
The Stryker ICV is a family of eightwheeled armoured vehicles derived from the Canadian LAV III, while the latter itself was derived from the Swiss Movang Piranha. The US has exported Stryker ICVs to Ukraine, North Macedonia and Thailand. The US is also making efforts to export the Stryker ICV to Bulgaria and Argentina, in addition to India. However, efforts to export the Stryker ICV to Canada, Israel and Lithuania failed.
The Stryker armoured vehicles are manufactured by the US firm General Dynamics Land Systems. The Stryker comes in many variants. With the exception of some specialised variants, the primary armament of the Stryker is a Protector M151 Remote Weapon Station with .50 in (12.7mm) M2 machine gun, 7.62mm M240B machine gun, or 40mm Mk 19 grenade launcher.
Delivering the Decisive Edge.
Continued on page 7...
For over 4 decades, India’s foremost technology-led engineering solutions and services company, L&T has helped DRDO and the Armed Forces champion the security of the Nation.
Backed by a countrywide network of manufacturing, R&D, and excellence centres - L&T Precision Engineering & Systems’ cutting-edge, proven solutions help India’s defence forces with the decisive edge on land, sea, and in the air.
Armoured Systems Complex (ASC), HaziraStrategic Systems Complex (SSC), Talegaon Precision Manufacturing & Systems Complex (PMSC), Coimbatore
Effort on Indigenous MilTech Collaboration; Trials to Prove
The unfolding of Light Tank Zorawar is certainly a milestone for indigenous military technology collaboration, especially with a domestic private entity (L&T) backed up by DRDO. The light tank now in the final stage, will prove some of the complex demonstration and firepower at high altitude areas. Along with this, it must also attempt to surpass the Chinese light tank, ZTQ-15 in its objective, showing technical prowess.
PHOTOGRAPH:
MANISH KUMAR JHA
IN A MAJOR BOOST to the Indian Army, India’s leading defence research agency, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian engineering conglomerate Larsen and Toubro (L&T) announced the advanced stage of trials of the Indigenous Light Tank Zorawar. The Army intends to deploy the tank in India’s Ladakh region, a high-altitude mountainous plateau where the average elevation is more than 5,000 m above sea level, and over terrain that requires low-track pressure.
The acquisition process is to start by 2027 after the series of summer and winter trials, in various terrains and altitudes –from high mountains to the rugged western deserts. The trials will confirm if the Indian light tank is a match for China’s light tank-- ZTQ-15 also named Type 15. In fact, China’s early capability plan also looked at its border with India along the high altitude areas and the need for a tank, which can be airdropped and operate in areas, that are not accessible to China’s heavier main battle tanks, such as the Type 96 and Type 99.
Building on the shorter development cycles which does prove a crucial collaboration in design and development indigenously, DRDO’s Chairman Samir V. Kamat reviewed the progress made in the project at the L&T facility at Hajira in Gujarat.
In the dynamic realm of military innovation, the advent of the Light Tank Zorawar marks a significant leap forward in armoured warfare technology. Named after General Zorawar Singh, an iconic figure in Indian military history known for his strategic prowess, this tank embodies cutting-edge design principles and formidable firepower tailored for modern battlefield environments.
The key aspect of Project Zorawar is the shortest time frame of the development, after L&T had proposed a joint development with DRDO in 2021. Post Galwan-crisis, the government sanctioned the DRDO’s proposal for the indigenous design and development of light tanks with key industry partner L&T in March 2022. The tank will be produced in phases, with 59 units manufactured by DRDO and L&T, while the remaining 295 will be produced under the ‘Make-1’ category mandated in the DAP 2020.
That, the Indian Army has finally put forth a standard (Bold and advanced but workable GQRS) and the DRDO with L&T joining such efforts, proposes a future roadmap for next-generation platforms and systems to be designed and built indigenously with efficient private domestic entities.
One of the early proponents of the light tank for Indian Army, Major General Pawan Anand (Retd) has talked about the urgent need for such a light tank for mountain warfare, even before the Galwan crisis. General Anand explained that the need for a light tank has been felt again after the Army dis-
carded the AMX30s, and the northern border has been in focus for the last three decades.
“Let us also remember how tanks appearing suddenly in the ZojiLa areas during the 1948 operations against the Pakistanis yielded disproportionate results. The PLA (The People’s Liberation Army) tanks in Moldo posed a threat to the Indian Army post-Galwan, and our T90s did meet the requirement, albeit inefficiently,” Major General Anand remarked, as he reminded the efficacy and the urgency of the light tank today.
How Rigorous have the Tests and Trials been?
Major General Anand who has closely seen the impossible mountainous terrain in high passes of Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh and the impact of the burning hot winds on the tank in the western frontier points out:
“The DRDO’s experience in developing the Arjun tank, and that of L&T with the K9 gun, has ensured the Zorawar has been fielded for trials about 18 months after DAC sanction. Its spiral development will place the Indian Army in a strong position against the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) in the future.”
“Newer technologies in Protection systems and enhanced efficiency of engines in low aspiration conditions make the light tank a potent weapon of choice in rugged high altitude areas.” he adds.
The Battle of Tanks: Technological Specifications Power, Mobility and Speed According to the DRDO, the maximum
weight of the light tank is 25 tonnes. The Zorawar is built for agility and swift manoeuvrability, crucial for both offensive strikes and defensive operations.
Tank Zorawar is powered by a highperformance Cummins 750/1,000 hp engine, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of just under 40 hp/tonne. In performance, 1000hp provides enough power for manoeuvrability in the thinner atmosphere (oxygen-depleted altitude) in Ladakh. Additionally, the engine boasts impressive speed capabilities of 70 km/h with amphibious capabilities, allowing it to swiftly navigate varied terrains, from rugged mountainous landscapes to urban settings.
On the other hand, China’s ZTQ-15 weighs 33 tonnes which is higher in tonnage, further adding to 36 tonnes with additional slap-on armour. The ZTQ has been seen moving around the 14,000-foot-high valleys which is why China has deployed it as a part primary land attack infantry move.
The power is based on a 1000hp diesel engine which is electronically controlled and integrated into a hydro-mechanical fully automatic transmission. However, Type 15’s power-to-weight ratio varied between 27 and 30 hp/tonne based on the armour setup. This tank can be used in mountain areas and operate in terrains that are inaccessible to standard main battle tanks with a weight of around 50 tonnes like the ZTZ99.
Armament
Main Gun. Equipped with a potent 105mm rifled gun, the Zorawar packs
a punch capable of neutralising both armoured vehicles and fortified positions with precision and reliability.
Secondary Armament. Complementing its primary armament are coaxial machine guns, typically 7.62mm or similar, designed for engaging infantry and light vehicles.
Chinese Type 15 is loaded with 105mm rifle gun with additional Armour-Piercing Fin-Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS), High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT), and High Explosive (HE). However, it has a gunlaunched anti-tank guided missile with a projectile penetration of 500mm of armoured steel at about 2,000-2,500 meters.
Protection
Zorawar tank’s armour is crafted from advanced composite materials, offering enhanced protection against ballistic threats, artillery shells, and even improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Modular armour enhancements can be tailored based on mission requirements, ensuring adaptability in diverse operational scenarios.
Here, Type 15 lacks in comparison with just a steel armour protection against small arms and shell splinters until an additional armour-packed or explosive reactive armour is opted for.
Communication and Surveillance Incorporating state-of-the-art communication systems, the Zorawar facilitates
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Light Tank Zorawar, developed by DRDO and L&T in the shortest time frame, represents a formidable blend of firepower, mobility, and technological sophistication to meet the demands of modern warfare
APPOINTMENTS / CONTINUED STORIES
Combat Transportation...
FICV, which has been delayed inordinately like most DRDO projects. The co-production of Stryker armoured vehicles also entailed political considerations, timing of which depends on the perception when maximum mileage can be extracted.
Indigenous Development of ICVs
The DRDO has been working on a project to develop the 20-tonne ICV ‘Abhay’ for the Indian Army as a technology demonstrator for the futuristic ICV (FICV), the design for which was completed by 2001. The Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) of the DRDO has completed the task of design, development and Armament integration of ‘Abhay’ in 2023. Technology demonstration of the weapon and ammunition system has been successfully completed according to ARDE.
The pre-production prototype of ‘Abhay’ was rolled out in June 2005 with development of the first armoured prototype in progress. In September 2019, it was announced that the FICV project will be fast tracked. Thereafter in January 2020, the then Army Chief General M.M. Naravane had said that induction of the FICV is scheduled for 2026-27. But this has not been endorsed by the DRDO.
According to recent media inputs, the DRDO is “also” playing a key role, with Tata and Mahindra leading the development of indigenous ICVs. Frankly, this whole exercise reiterates the fact that the private sector would have developed an indigenous ICV or FICV in a much faster timeframe than the DRDO. Ironically, Indian governments have failed to execute because of the DRDObureaucratic nexus, with DRDO playing the goose that lays golden eggs.
A significant development is the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP), also called TATA ‘Kestrel’, jointly produced by Tata Advanced Systems and DRRO, first unveiled during Defexpo 2014. WhAP is 8x8 ICV that has performed well in high-altitude trials. It has more power than the Stryker and is amphibious, which the Stryker is not. In
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PHOTOGRAPH: US Army
October 2019, the MoD cleared production of WhAP and export to friendly country. The Indian Army reportedly plans to acquire 200 WhAP. The first batch of WhAP was inducted into the Indian Army on April 12, 2022. WhAP can carry 2+9 soldiers compared to 3+8 by Stryker. WhAP’s power-toweight ratio is 25, compared to Stryker’s 17.24. WhAP weighs 24.5 tonnes compared to 20.3 tonone weight of Stryker, but with better power to weight ratio.
Concurrently, the Indian Army is reportedly set to order and quickly receive a new batch of 250 Ashok Leyland GTV 6x6 vehicles, which will provide a significant boost to its firepower and mobility. These high mobility vehicles provide excellent off-road capabilities, allowing for smooth navigation across diverse terrain, especially encountered across the northern borders. Their durability is because of robust materials used to build them and a sturdy design, which enables withstanding rigours of the battlefield. Moreover, they are built for allweather performance.
Light Tank Zorawar... Continued from page 6
seamless integration with command centres and other combat units, fostering superior situational awareness and coordinated operations.
Advanced surveillance and targeting systems, including day/night vision capabilities and laser rangefinders, empower crew members with comprehensive battlefield intelligence.
Crew Comfort and Ergonomics
Designed with crew comfort in mind, the interior layout of the Zorawar prioritises ergonomic efficiency, reducing crew fatigue during extended missions. Air-conditioning and advanced filtration systems ensure optimal crew conditions even in harsh environmental conditions, enhancing operational effectiveness.
Operational Versatility
The Zorawar’s compact size and lightweight construction make it well-suited for a variety of roles on the battlefield:
l Reconnaissance and Patrols: Its agility and reconnaissance capabilities enable it to gather vital intelligence while remaining discreet and responsive to changing threats.
l Urban Warfare: Manoeuvrability and compact design make it highly effective in urban environments where streets and alleys require nimble navigation.
l Support and Security: Serving as a
force multiplier, the Zorawar provides crucial fire support to infantry units and serves as a deterrent against enemy incursions.
The Light Tank Zorawar represents a formidable blend of firepower, mobility, and technological sophistication. Engineered to meet the demands of modern warfare, it embodies the spirit of innovation and strategic foresight. As military landscapes evolve, the Zorawar stands poised to redefine the benchmarks of armoured warfare, ensuring tactical superiority and operational success on diverse fronts.
However, it now remains to be seen how the Zorawar Light Tank will perform with advanced lightweight armour, active protection systems, its ability to fire missiles along with its main gun ammunition, and its agility with an efficient engine in low oxygen conditions.
“Yet, the fact that this tank has found its way in so short a time is a remarkable achievement for India’s public and private defence industrial capabilities and the opening up of the IA to indigenous weapon systems. We must enable all stakeholders further, even as we critique the quality and effectiveness in the battle of the new Indian tank,” Gen Ananad puts forth in the quest for advanced systems and platforms for the Indian Army in view of the ever-changing complex war and battlefield. SP
With a towing capacity of 20 tonnes, these GTV 6x6 all-terrain vehicles are specifically designed to meet the demanding requirement of the Indian Army’s medium artillery and defence (AD) regiments. These sturdy vehicles can haul heavy artillery guns and radar systems critical for battlefield operations; including swiftly deploying and manoeuvring these assets. SP
APPOINTMENTS
Lt General N.S. Raja Subramani has assumed the appointment of the Vice Chief of Army Staff. Prior to this, he was the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Command based at Lucknow.
The General Officer was commissioned into The Garhwal Rifles in Dec 1985. In his illustrious career spanning over 37 years, he has served across a wide spectrum of conflict and terrain profiles and has tenanted a host of Command, Staff and Instructional appointments. The General Officer has insightful knowledge and a deep understanding of operational dynamics on both the Western and Northern Borders.
Lt General Devendra Sharma, took over as the 25th General Officer Commanding in Chief of the Shimla based, Army Training Command (ARTRAC) on July 1, 2024.
The General was commissioned into ‘THE SCINDE HORSE’ on December 19, 1987. In an illustrious career spanning almost four decades, the General has tenanted important Command appointments in varied sensitive operational sectors, counter terrorism environment and high altitude terrain. The General was Chief of Staff, HQ Western Command prior to taking over as GOC-in-C, ARTRAC.
Major General Harsh Chhibber took over as the Commandant, College of Defence Management, Secunderabad on May 31, 2024. Major General Chhibber was commissioned into the Army Service Corps in December 1988. His military experience encompasses various important assignments in Eastern, Northern and Western Sectors.
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Jayant Baranwal
Deputy Managing Editor Neetu Dhulia
Senior Editorial Contributor
Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd)
Principal Correspondent Ayushee Chaudhary
Contributors
India
Lt General Dushyant Singh (Retd)
Lt General Pradeep Bali (Retd)
Lt General R.K. Jagga (Retd)
Lt General J.K. Sharma (Retd)
Major General Atanu K. Pattanaik (Retd)
Chairman & Managing Director Jayant Baranwal
Executive Vice President (Planning & Business Development) Rohit Goel
