SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Army is gearing up to further bolster its artillery capabilities with the procurement of 100 additional K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer guns. Sources indicate that a proposal for the procurement is likely to be presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) soon.
Once approved by the CCS, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the Indian partner for the K-9 Vajra, will receive a significant order for these advanced artillery systems. The K-9 Vajras have already proven their effectiveness in enhancing the Indian Army’s firepower along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
The K-9 Vajra, a 50-tonne tracked self-propelled howitzer with a 155mm, 52-caliber gun, is capable of firing shells up to 50 kilometers. The induction of these additional systems will further strengthen the Indian Army’s long-range artillery capabilities, enabling it to dominate the battlefield and deter potential adversaries.
L&T has made significant strides in indigenizing components of the K-9 Vajra, contributing to India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This move aligns with the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which aims to reduce reliance on foreign military equipment.