Cummins Chosen to Supply Engines for India's Indigenous Light Tank

By IndraStra Global News Team

Cover Image Attribute: This image is computer-generated using AI and is intended solely for illustrative purposes.

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering its defense capabilities and countering Chinese deployments in high-altitude regions, India has opted for American company Cummins to provide engines for its indigenous light tanks, according to a recent report by The Economic Times. This significant development comes as part of India's ongoing efforts to enhance its military capabilities, particularly in the challenging terrains of Ladakh.
The journey towards developing these indigenous light tanks began last year when the Indian government gave the green light for the project. The initiative saw the collaboration of Larsen and Toubro (L&T) with the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to create a prototype. However, the project encountered unforeseen obstacles when a German firm, initially selected to supply engines due to its impressive power-to-weight ratio, failed to reach an agreement.
Months of intensive negotiations and even diplomatic interventions failed to persuade the German company to commit to delivering the required engines on time. This delay significantly impeded the progress of the light tank development project, prompting the need to seek alternatives. Consequently, the decision was made to engage with American companies, with Cummins emerging as the preferred choice for engine supply.
The urgency of this development arises from the Indian Army's estimation that it needs a fleet of 354 light tanks, particularly in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh. Out of this total, L&T-DRDO is tasked with manufacturing 59 of these tanks, while the remaining units will be produced by other Indian companies through a competitive bidding process.
Dubbed "Project Zorawar," the development plan for the Indian light tank is ambitious, aiming to incorporate a range of modern features. These include the integration of artificial intelligence, drone warfare capabilities, and active protection systems, all aimed at enhancing the tank's effectiveness in diverse combat scenarios.

Image Attribute: Indian Army's K9 Vajra self-propelled artillery gun in Ladakh
The chosen platform for the L&T-DRDO option is built on the K9 Vajra self-propelled artillery chassis, which is currently in service and manufactured in India for the Army. These light tanks are expected to possess the capability to operate seamlessly across a variety of terrains, including high-altitude areas and island territories. Furthermore, their ability to be air-transportable is critical for rapid deployment in response to emerging threats.
Indian defense officials have emphasized the importance of a lightweight and agile platform that doesn't compromise on firepower, protection, surveillance, or communication capabilities. The integration of these diverse requirements is pivotal for ensuring the success of this project and strengthening India's defenses in these critical regions.
The need for these light tanks first emerged two years ago when China deployed a substantial 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 provided them with a temporary advantage. In response, the Indian Army deployed several T-72 and T-90 tanks, which, though formidable in their own right, were originally designed for operations in plains and deserts. This strategic move acted as a deterrence against further Chinese aggression, although it did come with limitations in the challenging high-altitude terrain.

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