New Delhi: India on Friday successfully test fired the Zoravar light tank weighing just 25 tonnes. During the test, the tank performed exceptionally well by hitting the target and efficiently completing all the intended objectives. It is being developed to enhance the army's combat capability along the border with China.

It is a versatile platform. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and L&T Defence are developing the air-transportable tank, designed for rapid deployment along the China border. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the successful trials of the tank as an important milestone towards India's goal of self-reliance in defence systems and technologies.

The initial test was successful

The Defence Ministry said, 'DRDO on September 13 successfully conducted the initial test of Zorawar, which is capable of deployment in high altitude areas. The performance of the tank was rigorously evaluated and it fired shells with accuracy on all the designated targets. The Indian Army is considering deploying more than 350 light tanks. Most of them will be deployed in mountainous border areas.'

It is worth noting that since the clash in Galwan Valley, the army has taken several steps to enhance combat capabilities. Easily transportable M-777 ultra light howitzer guns have been deployed in the mountainous regions along the LAC, including Arunachal Pradesh. Heavy tanks and infantry fighting vehicles like T-90 and T-72 have also been deployed in eastern Ladakh.