Zorawar and TEJASTRA

Why in News?

India showcased the Zorawar Light Tank and TEJASTRA directed energy weapon roadmap at Larsen & Toubro’s Hazira facility in Gujarat in June 2026. Both projects are part of India’s efforts to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing and enhance capabilities for future warfare.

Zorawar and TEJASTRA Key Highlights

Zorawar Light Tank

• Zorawar is a 25-tonne indigenous light tank developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
• It is specifically designed for operations in:
  • High-altitude areas
  • Mountainous terrain
  • Regions with limited infrastructure
• The platform addresses operational requirements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Integration of Nag Mk II Missile

• The tank has integrated the Nag Mk II Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM).
• The missile offers a range of 7-10 kilometres.
• Zorawar successfully completed trials in October 2025.

Procurement and Induction

• The Ministry of Defence has placed an initial order for 59 Zorawar tanks.
• Plans exist for procurement of more than 295 additional units.
• Full induction is expected by 2027.
• The platform is intended to complement heavier Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), which face mobility challenges in high-altitude sectors.

TEJASTRA Directed Energy Weapon Programme

• TEJASTRA is India’s roadmap for directed energy weapons (DEWs) and laser-based defence systems.
• Directed energy weapons use concentrated energy, such as lasers, to neutralize or disable targets.

Phase-wise Development

Phase-1

• 10-20 kilowatt laser systems.
• Intended for:
  • Counter-drone operations
  • Short-range air defence

Phase-2 (Planned for 2028)

• 50-100 kilowatt tactical laser systems.
• Designed for enhanced battlefield applications.

DRDO Laser Weapon Programme

• DRDO is developing a 50-kilowatt laser weapon system.
• Trials are expected in 2027.
• Planned induction is targeted for 2030.

Related Organisations and Programmes

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

• Established in 1958.
• Functions under the Ministry of Defence.
• Responsible for research and development of indigenous defence technologies.

Ministry of Defence (MoD)

• Nodal ministry for defence policy, procurement, and modernization of armed forces.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T)

• Major private-sector participant in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
• Partner in the development of the Zorawar Light Tank.

Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence

• Promotes indigenous design, development, and production of defence equipment.
• Supports public-private partnerships in strategic sectors.