German Engines Available Now But India Chooses American Power Plants for Entire Zorawar Light Tank Project

Indian authorities have resolved to persist with the utilization of the American Cummins engine for the entire Zorawar light tank project, which encountered a delay due to issues in the supply of German engines. Sources within the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) confirmed that despite the availability of German clearances and readiness from German firms to supply engines, the decision has been made to proceed exclusively with the Cummins engine for the entire program.

Originally, the Zorawar light tank project was slated to utilize a German engine, but complications arising from a lack of German export control clearances, specifically the BAFA clearance, led to the decision to adopt the American engine. A collaborative effort between DRDO and the private sector firm Larsen and Toubro, the Zorawar light tank prototype, equipped with the Cummins engine, is nearing completion and is scheduled to undergo trials by the year end.

Following internal trials, the main testing phase will commence in the desert sector before progressing to high-altitude regions such as Ladakh and the Sikkim sector. The tank, designed for versatile use across terrains, will undergo rigorous testing in diverse conditions. The impetus for developing the light tank emerged during the 2020 standoff with China when the People Liberation Army deployed agile light tanks along the Line of Actual Control, showcasing enhanced mobility compared to conventional tanks.

Named after the esteemed General Zorawar Singh, renowned for leading successful victories in Tibet (now under Chinese control), the tank holds strategic significance. In response to the standoff, the Indian Army incorporated a significant number of T-72 and T-90 tanks into operational areas, capitalizing on tactical surprise and compelling the adversary into a defensive posture.