Tanks in Modern Warfare

The Ukraine conflict has highlighted the vital role of battle tanks in contemporary warfare, emphasizing the necessity of armored vehicles alongside long-range firepower. In the backdrop of this, the stand-off between India and China in Eastern Ladakh has pushed both nations to adapt their military strategies, including the deployment of tanks at high altitudes.

India’s Military Build-Up

Following the 2020 Galwan clash, India significantly strengthened its military presence in Ladakh. The deployment strategy shifted from short-term rotations to longer tenures, ensuring a more acclimatized and prepared force. Key developments included:

• Tank Regiments: India deployed T-72 tanks and later reinforced these units with T-90s (also known as "Bhishma”) and other mechanized elements.
• T-90 is the main battle tank of India’s mechanised forces since 2003. It is renowned for its firepower, mobility and protection.
• T-90 Bhishma tank: The Indian Army has achieved a significant milestone in its modernisation efforts with the successful overhaul of the T-90 Bhishma tank. 
• Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun: It is a multi-laboratory programme of DRDO with CVRDE as the lead Laboratory. It is a state-of-the-art tank with superior fire power, high mobility, and excellent protection. 
• Ajeya tank: CI-Ajeya tank is the modernized version of T-72. The tank capability was enhanced with Global Positioning System (GPS), Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) and Integrated Fire Detection and Suppression System (IFDSS) to the level of contemporary combat vehicles.
• K9 Vajra: Although primarily a self-propelled howitzer, it has capabilities that complement tank operations. It is equipped with a 155-mm gun and advanced targeting systems. It has high mobility and rapid deployment features.
• Tank Upgrades: The Indian Army plans to upgrade T-72 tanks with enhanced engines to improve performance.
• Zorawar Tank: The Zorawar tank has been developed by DRDO’s Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE) in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The project, named after the historic General Zorawar Singh Kahluria, took approximately three years to complete.
• Key Features of Zorawar
  • Weight: 25 tonnes, making it light enough for air transport by helicopter.
  • Speed: Capable of traveling at about 60 kilometers per hour on land.
  • Deployment: Designed for high-altitude areas and able to perform effectively in both mountainous and desert terrains.
• Light Battle Tank (LBT): India announces to soon have its own indigenously developed Light Battle Tank (LBT).