NEW ARTILLERY AND TANKS IN ARMY MODERNISATION

Why in the news?

With tensions continuing along its western and northern borders with China and Pakistan, the Indian Army is pushing forward with its modernization efforts, concentrating on improving its combat units, especially artillery, armoured, and mechanized troops.

NEW ARTILLERY AND TANKS IN ARMY MODERNISATION

Details of the Modernisation Effort

  • Artillery Upgrades: In order to increase firepower, the Army intends to standardize all artillery to 155mm calibre by 2042. This will allow for a balanced combination of guns and missiles.
  • Tanks: About 350 of the new “Zorawar” light tanks are being acquired by the Army; these tanks are more appropriate for mountainous terrain, especially near China’s northern borders. Compared to the T-72, these tanks are lighter and equipped with contemporary features including improved mobility and AI-enabled systems.
  • Indigenous Development: The Zorawar tank is being built in-country, with an emphasis on elements that will withstand the bitterly cold climate of the Himalayas.

About the Indian Army

  • Formation: The Indian Army was reorganized following India’s independence in 1947, however it was first founded on April 1, 1895, while the country was still under British administration.
  • Strength: With approximately 1.2 million active soldiers and 960,000 reserve members, the Indian Army is the second-largest standing army in the world.
  • Leadership: General Upendra Dwivedi is the Chief of Army Staff at the moment.

Zorawar: The Indian light tank prototype, which is slated for further testing, was unveiled by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). DRDO and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) collaborated on its development, and other micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises provided input.