India’s Zorawar tank is equipped with a HMPT-800 transmission by RENK America, and a 760 HP, VTA903E-T760 engine by Cummins Inc.
India’s mighty Zorawar combat tank, which has been specially designed for for warfare in mountainous terrains, has now been enhanced with a US-made engine and transmission, further amplifying war machine’s combat effectiveness in potential war-like scenarios. India plans to deploy the Zorawar tank on its borders with rival nations, including China and Pakistan, to act as a deterrent against any skirmishes or misadventures by the enemy.
Zorawar enhanced with American-made components
According to reports, Zorawar tank is equipped with a HMPT-800 transmission by RENK America, and a 760 HP, VTA903E-T760 engine by Cummins Inc. Both companies are regarded as the top US military vehicle component manufacturers in their respective fields.
The addition of US-made components, is expected to magnify the capabilities of India’s homemade Zorawar tank, enabling it perform exceptionally in the roughest of mountainous terrains on the border.
Zorawar Tank capabilities
Developed for the Indian Army post the India-China Galwan clash in 2020, the Zorawar is a light tank designed to have a have a high power-to-weight ratio along with substantial firepower, protection, surveillance and communication capabilities.
The Zorawar tank has been designed and developed by the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) of India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) with private engineering giant, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), being the development and production partner.
The light tank, named after 19th century Dogra General Zorawar Singh, has been designed to provide versatility to execute operations across diverse terrains against varying threats and equipment profiles of its adversaries.
The Zorawar weighs 25 tonnes, which is significantly lighter than the T-72 and T-90 tanks currently in service, allowing the light tank to traverse steep mountain slopes and water obstacles with relative ease, making it an ideal choice for combat operations in the rugged Himalayan terrain.
Zorawar vs AMPV and Bradley A4
India’s Zorawar tank is often compared to US Army’s AMPV and Bradley A4 Fighting Vehicle in firepower and maneuverability. The US-made war machines are being used by the Ukrainian Army and have caused significant damage to Russia during the current Russia-Ukraine war.
In a recent social media video, a Bradley A4 is seen taking on a Russian T-90M tank in Ukraine and destroying it. The Zorawar is reportedly at par with the A4 and APMV in terms of firepower, making it a lethal war machine, especially in rough terrains.
