Belgium’s John Cockerill Aims for 700 NATO-Standard Turret Order for India’s ‘Zorawar’ Light Tank, Partners with Indian Firm for Local Production

India's defence capabilities are set to receive a substantial upgrade through a new partnership between Belgium's John Cockerill Defence (JCD) and India's Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics (EPH).

The collaboration will focus on producing advanced turret systems within India for the Indian Army's "Zorawar" light tank program, a project designed to enhance India's military presence along its borders.

The joint venture, with JCD holding a 60% majority stake and EPH 40%, aligns with India's "Make in India" initiative, which promotes domestic manufacturing and self-reliance in key defence sectors.

As part of this agreement, the Cockerill 3105 turret—equipped with the NATO-standard Cockerill® 105mm High Pressure (HP) Gun—will be produced at a facility in Pune, marking the first time JCD will manufacture turrets outside of Europe.

The Zorawar light tank project is India's strategic response to the increasing deployment of Chinese ZTQ-15 tanks along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Initially, the Indian Army plans to acquire 350 Zorawar tanks to bolster its operational readiness in high-altitude environments. However, recent discussions suggest that the total order could reach 700 units, highlighting India's long-term commitment to strengthening its border defences.

The Cockerill 3105 turret provides the Zorawar with formidable firepower, capable of firing various ammunition types, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs). It features an autoloader, advanced fire control systems, and a high elevation range of +42 degrees—essential for operations in mountainous regions like the LAC.

The adoption of a NATO-standard 105mm gun also enhances interoperability with other nations using similar weaponry, adding strategic value to the project.

The initial phase involves the production of 59 turrets for Zorawar prototypes, which are currently undergoing trials. With the anticipated requirement reaching 700 tanks, the project underscores India's focus on countering threats from China's ZTQ-15, a 33-35 tonne tank also equipped with a 105mm gun.

The manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune, is expected to deliver its first India-made turret by 2027. Beyond supplying the Indian Army, the JCD-EPH partnership aims to explore export markets, positioning India as a key player in global defence manufacturing.

This collaboration not only strengthens India’s domestic defence industry but also deepens strategic ties between India and Belgium, reflecting JCD's confidence in India's industrial capabilities.