Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Battle tanks;
Mains level: Significance of Tank in war;
Why in the News?
The Ukraine war has highlighted the versatility of battle tanks, demonstrating that armor remains crucial on modern battlefields, alongside long-range firepower.
What are the difficulties in Ladakh due to high terrain and altitude?
- High Altitude Challenges: At altitudes of 13,000-15,000 feet, oxygen levels are low, causing rarefied air, which affects the performance of engines and machines, including tanks. Temperatures can dip to as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
- Logistics and Transportation: Transporting tanks and heavy machinery to these high-altitude regions is a Herculean task due to the terrain. Once deployed, they are kept operational throughout, with maintenance facilities set up in forward areas like Nyoma and Daulat Beg Oldi.
Threat from China:
- Chinese Deployment: The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has enhanced its firepower and mechanised units along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This includes the deployment of the ZTQ 15 (Type 15) light tanks and Type 96A second-generation tanks.
- Modernisation and Mobilisation: China has also introduced modern wheeled Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and assault vehicles such as the CSK series to the region, indicating a significant military upgrade along the LAC.
- Tactical Proximity: During the 2020 stand-off, Chinese and Indian tanks came within 100 metres of each other, demonstrating the heightened tensions and the tactical threats in Eastern Ladakh.
What are the Indian Army’s future plans to fortify the border areas?
- Indigenous Development: The Indian Army is developing the Zorawar light tank, specifically designed for high-altitude warfare.
- T-90 and BMP Upgrades: India is enhancing the capabilities of existing T-90 tanks and BMP-2 armoured carriers
- Long-term Projects: Plans are underway for Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) to replace current tanks and BMPs, with induction expected by 2030.
- Procurement Plans: The Army is also evaluating the U.S. Stryker infantry combat vehicle and has initiated the process to procure 100 more K9 Vajra Howitzers to bolster long-range firepower.
- Enhancing Infrastructure: Since 2012, India has significantly improved its infrastructure along the LAC, enabling long-term deployment of troops, tanks, and artillery in the region.
Conclusion: The government should continue expanding logistical infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), improving transportation, maintenance facilities, and supply chains to support long-term troop and equipment deployment in challenging terrain.
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