Indian Army to Receive Additional 100 South Korean K9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzers.

According to an article published by the Indian newspaper DNA on June 13, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Ministry of Defense have announced a major advancement in their ambitious plan to modernize the armed forces. Reliable sources report that a crucial contract for the acquisition of an additional 100 K9 Vajra-T artillery guns is about to be concluded with the Indian defense industry giant, Larsen & Toubro (L&T). This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening India's offensive capabilities.
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K9 Vajra-T Self-Propelled Howitzer (Picture source: Wikimedia)

These new units of the K9 Vajra-T, self-propelled howitzers already tested and approved by the Indian Army, represent a major asset for military operations, especially at high altitudes. The acquisition follows the successful use of the first 100 K9s, which have been deployed in desert areas and recently adapted for mountainous terrains near the Actual Control Line (ACL), where tensions with China have spurred a review of In
dia’s tactical and logistical requirements.

The K-9 Vajra is an Indian version of the South Korean K9 Thunder 155mm self-propelled howitzer produced under license in India by the company Larsen & Toubro. The Indian version is fitted with indigenous components including a fire control system, direct fire system, and ammunition handling systems developed and manufactured by the company L&T.

The K9 Vajra-T guns are designed to operate in extreme conditions, equipped with winterization kits to withstand temperatures as low as -20°C. These kits include essential elements such as special batteries and lubricants suitable for the freezing cold of mountainous regions.

The indigenous aspect of the K9 project is particularly notable. L&T has emphasized that over 80% of the work on the Vajra-T systems has been localized, with more than half of the value of the parts coming from Indian manufacturing. This project has mobilized a supply chain of about 1,000 industrial partners, highlighting the importance of small and medium enterprises in national defense.

Operationally, the K9 Vajra-T excels with a 155mm cannon capable of firing at ranges up to 38 kilometers. Its rapid firing capabilities, semi-automatic loading system, and robustness against ballistic threats and anti-personnel mines position it as a pillar in the arsenal of the Indian Army.

In addition to its firepower, the K9 Vajra is equipped with state-of-the-art digital fire control systems and can operate in complex modes such as Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI), thus increasing its effectiveness on the battlefield.

The K-9 Vajra is armed with a 155mm/52 caliber gun which has a firing of three rounds per 15 seconds and a maximum rate of fire of 6 to 8 rounds a minute for 3 minutes. With HE (High Explosive) projectiles, it has a maximum firing range of 30 km but it can also fire K307 Base Bleed HE ammunition to reach a maximum firing range of 40 km.

The turret and the hull of the K-9 Vajra are made of welded steel construction providing ballistic protection against 14.5mm armor-piercing ammunition and 155mm artillery shell splinters. The vehicle has a crew of five including a driver, commander, gunner, and two loaders.

The K-9 Vajra is motorized with an MTU MT 881 Ka-500 8-cylinder water-cooled diesel engine developing 1,000 hp coupled to the Allison ATDX1100-5A3 transmission. It can reach a maximum road speed of 67 km/h with a maximum cruising range of 360 km.

With this new acquisition, India continues to strengthen its strategic positioning in the region while promoting innovation and self-reliance in its defense industry. This development reaffirms the Modi government's commitment to modernizing its army and maintaining a high level of readiness in the face of contemporary security challenges.

As a reminder, in September 2015, the Indian Ministry of Defense selected Hanwha Techwin and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) as preferred bidders to supply 100 K9 Vajra-T SPHs to the Indian Army. On July 6, 2016, India agreed to purchase 100 K9 Vajra-Ts for $750 million. On March 29, 2017, the Indian government approved a budget of $646 million for purchasing 100 K9 Vajra-T SPHs. A formal contract of $310 million was signed between Hanwha Techwin and Larsen & Toubro at New Delhi on April 21. Hanwha Techwin would supply the first 10 K9 Vajra-Ts, and 90 would be license-produced in India by Larsen & Toubro.