Zorawar's trials are underway in Ladakh's Nyoma region and the indigenously-developed light tank will be handed over to the Indian Army for user trials next year after current trials are completed, sources said.

The Zorawar light tank, an indigenous development by India, is currently undergoing significant trials in the challenging high-altitude terrain of Ladakh. This testing phase, which began in mid-November 2024, is being conducted at the Nyoma field firing range and is scheduled to conclude by mid-December 2024. The trials are critical as they aim to validate the tank's performance in extreme conditions, particularly given the strategic context of the region along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

The Zorawar light tank has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T). It is designed to weigh around 25 tonnes, making it suitable for operations in high-altitude areas where traditional tanks may struggle due to weight and mobility constraints. The tank features advanced firepower, mobility, and survivability systems, making it a formidable asset for the Indian Army.

The current trials focus on several key aspects:

Firepower: Assessing the effectiveness of its armaments.

Mobility: Evaluating manoeuvrability in rugged terrains.

Resilience: Testing durability against harsh weather conditions.

These evaluations are crucial for ensuring that the Zorawar meets the operational requirements of the Indian Army, particularly in high-altitude warfare scenarios where rapid deployment and agility are essential.

The Zorawar light tank is seen as a direct response to China's military capabilities, specifically targeting the Chinese ZTQ-15 light tank. The Indian Army has placed an initial order for 59 units, which will be manufactured by L&T, with future orders anticipated based on performance outcomes from these trials. This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing India's defence capabilities and self-reliance in critical regions.

The ongoing trials of the Zorawar light tank not only aim to validate its operational capabilities but also serve as a strategic message regarding India's readiness to address potential threats along its borders.