Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Larsen & Toubro's Hazira facility offered a comprehensive glimpse into India's rapidly expanding indigenous defence ecosystem. From a light tank designed for Himalayan terrain and a battle-tested artillery gun deployed in Ladakh to laser weapons aimed at countering drones, the showcase highlighted the country's most ambitious military platforms and next-generation technologies.
Key Platforms on Display
Among the systems displayed were the Zorawar light tank, developed in collaboration with the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE); the K9 Vajra-T self-propelled artillery gun; the Trajan towed gun system; and the BvS-10 Sindhu articulated all-terrain vehicle. Futuristic technologies such as the TEJASTRA High Energy Laser System, an indigenous 1,500-horsepower tank engine and transmission, and a 30 mm unmanned turret for the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) were also showcased.
Zorawar Light Tank
The Zorawar light tank represents India's efforts to develop platforms tailored to its unique operational requirements. Weighing 25 tonnes and armed with a 105 mm gun, it is designed for deployment across plains, deserts, and high-altitude regions. Its modular architecture accommodates future upgrades and emerging technologies, enhancing long-term operational relevance.
K9 Vajra-T and Trajan Systems
The K9 Vajra-T, already inducted into the Indian Army and deployed in eastern Ladakh, is a 155 mm tracked self-propelled artillery system manufactured by L&T in collaboration with South Korea's Hanwha Defence. It combines long-range firepower, mobility, and rapid deployment capabilities. Its "shoot-and-scoot" feature allows quick relocation after firing, improving survivability in combat conditions. L&T also showcased the Trajan 155 mm towed artillery gun system, developed with French defence major KNDS, adding to India's growing artillery manufacturing ecosystem.
Upgraded Close-In Weapon System
The company displayed an upgraded close-in weapon system based on the L-70 gun platform. The L-70 played a significant role during Operation Sindoor, where gun-based air defence systems countered Pakistani drones. The upgraded version incorporates an advanced fire-control system, enhancing effectiveness against fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
Mobility and Next-Gen Technologies
In the mobility segment, the BvS-10 Sindhu, a modified version of Sweden's BvS10 vehicle, is already in service with the Indian Army. Its articulated dual-cabin design enables operations in deserts, marshes, riverine areas, and high-altitude regions. The TEJASTRA High Energy Laser System, designed for counter-drone and missile-defence roles, reflects India's growing focus on non-kinetic capabilities as part of a layered air-defence architecture.
Indigenous Propulsion and Unmanned Turret
The Hazira facility showcased a major breakthrough in indigenous propulsion technology: a 1,500-horsepower engine and transmission developed for armoured vehicles. This system has the potential to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthen India's strategic autonomy. Another notable exhibit was the 30 mm unmanned turret for the FICV programme, equipped with an anti-tank guided missile launcher. The remotely operated turret enhances battlefield lethality while reducing crew exposure to enemy fire through advanced targeting and fire-control systems.
Conclusion
Together, the platforms on display reflected the growing capabilities of India's defence industrial base and the increasing role of the private sector in military manufacturing. The exhibition highlighted how indigenous innovation, combined with global partnerships, is contributing to the development of advanced systems for the armed forces while advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
