India Strengthens Defense Independence with Local Production of 100 South Korean K9 Vajra-T Howitzers.

On December 23, 2024, India finalized a strategic contract with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the production of 100 K9 Vajra-T self-propelled howitzers. This system is an adapted version of the K9 Thunder, developed by South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace, a recognized player in mobile artillery systems. Valued at approximately $850 million, the program marks a significant step in India’s efforts to modernize its armed forces while promoting domestic production under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative. The K9 Vajra-T units will be manufactured at L&T’s advanced industrial facility in Hazira, Gujarat, dedicated to armored and artillery systems.

The K9 Vajra-T, a 155 mm, 52-caliber self-propelled artillery system, is designed to meet the specific needs of the Indian Army in diverse and challenging environments, including plains, deserts, and high-altitude regions.(Picture source: Indian MoD)

The defense partnership between India and South Korea highlights a successful collaboration that combines technology transfer and local production. This relationship began in 2017 with a contract between L&T and Hanwha Aerospace for the initial production of K9 Vajra-T howitzers, tailored to the requirements of the Indian Army. Of the initial 100 units, 90 were manufactured in India with a localization rate exceeding 80%, demonstrating the initiative’s focus on enhancing domestic industrial capabilities. This collaboration has now extended to a second order for 100 units, underlining the mutual trust and growing importance of bilateral defense cooperation.

The K9 Vajra-T, a 155 mm, 52-caliber self-propelled artillery system, is designed to meet the specific needs of the Indian Army in diverse and challenging environments, including plains, deserts, and high-altitude regions. Powered by an MTU engine delivering 1,000 horsepower, it can achieve a maximum speed of 67 km/h despite its 47-ton weight. The system can fire up to 48 shells, with an operational range of 30 km using standard munitions, which extends to 41.6 km with self-propelled rounds. Its robust armor ensures the safety of the five-person crew.

Production at L&T’s Hazira facility, inaugurated in 2019, reflects India’s growing capabilities in defense manufacturing. This state-of-the-art facility enables the fabrication, assembly, and testing of complex systems while leveraging a network of local suppliers and small-to-medium enterprises. Beyond the K9 Vajra-T, the facility supports key programs, including armored vehicles and naval components.

This contract aligns with India’s broader initiatives to modernize its military forces. Recently, the Ministry of Defense signed agreements with BEML Ltd. for the production of high-mobility vehicles and heavy-duty trailers, aimed at enhancing military logistics. Additionally, the Indian Navy launched Samarthak, a multipurpose vessel developed domestically, reflecting New Delhi’s focus on building world-class naval capabilities. These efforts collectively emphasize the country’s strategy to enhance strategic capabilities while bolstering its defense industry.

Globally, the K9 Vajra-T continues to gain recognition for its proven performance. Derived from the K9 Thunder, which holds 50-55% of the global self-propelled artillery market, it has been procured by nations such as Finland, Norway, Poland, Australia, Egypt, Turkey, and Romania. In Australia, Hanwha Aerospace has established local production facilities to manufacture a modified version, the AS9 Huntsman. In Romania, preparations are underway to establish similar production capabilities, further consolidating Hanwha’s position in the global artillery market.

This new contract for the K9 Vajra-T underscores India’s ability to leverage international partnerships to develop customized solutions tailored to its strategic requirements. By combining technological innovation, domestic production, and international collaboration, India positions itself as a key player in the defense sector while reinforcing its industrial resilience to meet future challenges.