Countering China: India has chosen American company Cummins to supply engines for its indigenous light tanks, which are urgently needed to counter Chinese deployments in high altitudes, according to an ET report. The project to develop these light tanks was approved last year, with Larsen and Toubro collaborating with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to create a prototype.
However, according to the report the project faced obstacles when a German firm, selected for engine supply due to its high power-to-weight ratio, failed to reach an agreement. Despite months of negotiations, the German company could not commit to delivering the engines on time, even after diplomatic intervention, defence insiders said. This delay hindered the progress of the light tank development. As a result, the decision was made to engage with American companies, and Cummins’ offer was accepted.
The Indian Army has estimated that it requires 354 light tanks in the high altitude areas of Ladakh. Out of these, L&T-DRDO will manufacture 59 tanks, while the remaining tanks will be produced by other Indian companies after a bidding process. The development plan for the Indian light tank is named Project Zorawar. This tank will incorporate modern features such as artificial intelligence integration, drone warfare capabilities, and active protection systems.

The L&T-DRDO option is based on the chassis of the K9 Vajra self-propelled artillery, which is currently in service and manufactured in India for the Army. The light tanks must be able to operate effectively in various terrains, including high altitude areas and island territories. Additionally, they need to be air-transportable for rapid deployment. Officials have emphasized the importance of a lightweight and agile platform with substantial firepower, protection, surveillance, and communication capabilities.
The need for a light tank arose two years ago when China deployed a significant number of troops and heavy equipment to disputed areas in eastern Ladakh. China’s introduction of new type 15 light tanks along the Line of Actual Control in April 2020 temporarily gave them an advantage. In response, the Indian Army deployed several T-72 and T-90 tanks, which were heavier and designed for operations in plains and deserts. While these deployments had a deterrence impact, they faced limitations in high altitude areas.