Summary:
Tata Advanced Systems has emerged as the lowest bidder for India’s ₹20,000 crore Project Zorawar light tank programme. The defence project could mark the first battle tank developed and manufactured by a private-sector company, strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), a defense wing of the Tata Group, has emerged as the lowest bidder for India's flagship Project Zorawar which is estimated at nearly Rs 20,000 crore.
The contract is a significant milestone as it would be the first time in the country when a battle tank is being developed and manufactured by a private sector entity.
TASL has now moved ahead in the procurement process and will be asked to demonstrate two prototype tanks in 130 weeks.
Project Zorawar Is About Enhanced Combat Capabilities In High-Altitude Combat
Project Zorawar focuses on developing an Armoured Fighting Vehicle-Indian Light Tank (AFV-ILT) which will be able to fight in high-altitude, desert and marshy conditions.
The Indian Army wants more mobile armoured vehicles which would be able to carry more payload for combat operations in difficult terrains.
This project falls under the Defence Ministry's Make 1 policy, under which the government gives 70% funding support for development of equipment indigenously.
The policy aims to promote private-public partnerships and reduce the country's dependence on foreign suppliers for defense equipment.
Mahindra Defence To Develop Prototype Too
While TASL emerged as the lowest bidder, Mahindra Defence Systems, which was the second in the fray, would also be asked to develop a prototype. The move would enable the government to take a closer look at alternative proposals before finalizing one.
TASL had emerged as the lowest bidder last year too when the bidding was opened, but one of the contesting firms objected to the outcome. However, after thorough scrutiny by the Indian Army and the Defence Ministry, the objection was found to be invalid and the process moved ahead.
Tata Group To Expand Footprint In Defense
The win has come at a time when Tata Advanced Systems is looking to expand its footprint in the defense space. The company, which has already supplied many tactical vehicles and infantry fighting vehicles to the Indian Army, is now looking to move into more sophisticated tracked and armoured vehicles.
TASL is understood to have put forward a proposal which includes an indigenous turret system and self-developed loitering munitions.
