Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Larsen & Toubro (L&T) plant at Hazira in Gujarat’s Surat district, a major centre for defence and heavy engineering projects. The visit is being seen as an important step in India’s efforts to become self-reliant in the defence sector and reduce dependence on foreign military equipment.
The Hazira facility is India’s first Armoured Systems Complex (ASC) developed by a private company. Prime Minister Modi had inaugurated the plant in 2019. Since then, it has become one of the country’s most important centres for the production of advanced military vehicles and weapons systems.
During his visit, the Prime Minister interacted with employees and reviewed several defence projects being developed at the facility. Discussions focused on strengthening indigenous defence production and increasing the role of Indian industries in meeting the armed forces’ requirements.
Over the past few years, the central government has strongly promoted the concept of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” or self-reliant India. Defence manufacturing has been one of the key areas of this initiative. The government believes that producing military equipment within the country will improve national security, create jobs, boost technological development, and reduce import costs.
The Hazira plant plays an important role in this strategy because it is involved in manufacturing some of India’s most advanced defence platforms. The facility demonstrates how private companies can contribute significantly to the country's defence preparedness.
One of the major products manufactured at the plant is the K-9 Vajra-T self-propelled artillery gun. These guns are already being used by the Indian Army, including in challenging areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Around 100 K-9 Vajra systems are currently in service, and the government has approved the purchase of another 100 units.
The K-9 Vajra is known for its mobility, firepower, and ability to operate in difficult terrain. Its deployment in high-altitude regions has strengthened the Army’s artillery capabilities.
When the system was introduced, Prime Minister Modi praised the efforts of the L&T team and described the project as a major contribution to India’s defence sector. The successful manufacturing of the K-9 Vajra in India is often cited as an example of the country’s growing defence production capabilities.
Apart from artillery systems, the Hazira plant is also involved in several other important defence programmes. These projects are expected to play a major role in modernising India’s armed forces in the coming years.
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One of the most significant projects at the facility is the development of the Zorawar light tank. The tank is being jointly developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and L&T.
Named after the famous Dogra military leader General Zorawar Singh, the tank has been designed specifically for operations in high-altitude regions. Weighing around 25 tonnes, it is lighter than traditional battle tanks and can move more easily in mountainous areas.
The Zorawar tank is currently undergoing trials and is expected to be deployed in regions such as eastern Ladakh. The Indian Army requires such platforms to strengthen its operational capabilities in challenging border areas where heavier tanks face mobility issues.
Another important programme associated with the Hazira facility is the Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV). This vehicle is being developed to replace older infantry combat vehicles currently used by the Indian Army.
The FICV is expected to feature advanced technology, improved protection, and enhanced firepower. Reports suggest that it will be equipped with a 30 mm to 40 mm main gun and advanced anti-tank guided missiles. These capabilities will significantly improve the combat effectiveness of infantry units.
The vehicle is being designed to meet future battlefield requirements and support mechanised operations in different terrains.
The Hazira plant is also expected to manufacture the BvS10 Sindhu all-terrain armoured vehicle. This vehicle is designed to operate in extreme weather and terrain conditions. It can move through snow, marshes, deserts, and other difficult environments where conventional vehicles may struggle.
Such specialised vehicles are increasingly important as the armed forces prepare for a wide range of operational scenarios across India’s diverse geography.
The Prime Minister’s visit comes at a time when India is placing greater emphasis on defence exports as well. The government has repeatedly stated its ambition to transform India into a major global defence manufacturing hub.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently said that India has the potential to become one of the world’s largest arms exporters in the coming decades. Achieving this goal will require strong domestic manufacturing, continuous research and development, and greater participation from private industry.
Experts believe that facilities like the Hazira plant are crucial to achieving these objectives. They not only manufacture advanced defence equipment but also help build technical expertise, create employment opportunities, and encourage innovation.
The plant represents a successful partnership between government initiatives and private sector capabilities. By producing sophisticated military systems within the country, India is reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening its strategic autonomy.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit therefore carries significance beyond a routine inspection. It highlights the government’s continued commitment to indigenous defence production and its vision of making India a leading force in global defence manufacturing.
As projects such as the K-9 Vajra, Zorawar tank, FICV, and BvS10 Sindhu move forward, the Hazira facility is expected to remain at the centre of India’s efforts to build a modern, self-reliant, and globally competitive defence industry.
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