India’s first AI-powered light tank Zorawar set for Gujarat rollout
Ahmedabad: India stands on the verge of launching its inaugural domestically-produced artificial intelligence-powered light tank, the Zorawar, currently under production at Larsen & Toubro’s manufacturing unit in Hazira, Gujarat, according to defense ministry sources.
Created through a partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the Zorawar marks a significant advancement in India’s military production capabilities.
The initial production run will encompass nearly 400 Zorawar units, with individual tank costs projected at approximately Rs 70 crore. Military planners estimate the complete procurement requirement at roughly 1,000 vehicles.
This advanced multi-terrain combat vehicle will serve as India’s premier AI-integrated tank, designed for operations spanning desert environments, flatlands, high-elevation mountainous regions, wetlands, and aquatic zones.
Domestic Manufacturing Push
Defense ministry representatives highlighted that numerous tank components were manufactured within India, with micro, small, and medium enterprises from Vadodara, Rajkot, and Surat supplying various parts. The vehicle’s temperature regulation system, rubber casting components, and transmission mechanisms were all conceived and produced locally.
At approximately 25 tonnes—substantially lighter than conventional 70-tonne armored vehicles—the Zorawar enables swift deployment and can be transported via military cargo aircraft with ease.
The combat vehicle features a lightweight, high-durability titanium construction equipped with 80-gram armored protection plating.
Strategic Deployment Plans
The tank has been specifically engineered for high-altitude combat operations, particularly targeting the Indo-China frontier including territories such as Ladakh. Following Operation Sindoor, military strategists are also evaluating Zorawar deployment along the Indo-Pakistan boundary, especially in Punjab, where its maneuverability in confined spaces could provide tactical benefits, defense officials indicated.
The vehicle bears the name of 19th-century Dogra commander Zorawar Singh—celebrated for his military expeditions in Ladakh and western Tibet—honoring his mountain warfare expertise.
Advanced Combat Technology
The Zorawar incorporates cutting-edge battlefield technologies with multiple sophisticated capabilities. “The AI-powered targeting system enables automatic threat identification and target acquisition, operating with only two to three personnel compared to conventional four to five crew requirements. A notable feature includes its built-in anti-drone defense mechanism capable of detecting, monitoring, and eliminating airborne threats independently,” the defense official explained.