India's answer to China's Type 15: Inside Belgian-powered Zorawar light tank
India is developing the indigenous 'Zorawar' light tank, designed for high-altitude warfare to counter China's Type 15 tanks. The project involves a strategic defense partnership with Belgium, including local production of the tank's turret.
Why it matters
The Zorawar tank represents a significant step in India's military modernization and its strategy to secure its borders against regional rivals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasised defence and security as the foundation of Indo-Belgium relations amid the visit of Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever.PM Modi noted that both nations have finalised pacts to boost military exchanges and training initiatives, highlighting collaboration on advanced military hardware, such as the Zorawar tank.Indigenous tank to counter ChinaDeveloped as a counter to China’s Type 15 tanks that the Indian army faced during the 2020 standoff,Zorawar is the country’s first indigenous light tank designed for high‑altitude warfare.Weighing around 25 tonnes, the tank is lighter in comparison to the Chinese Type 15, allowing deployment by IAF’s C‑17 Globemaster aircraft.It can reach 70 km/h, and uses hydropneumatic suspension for movement on rugged terrain.Zorawar has a range of 450 km.Despite its weight, Zorawar is well-armed.
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