The Indian Army is poised to submit a requirement for an additional 100 K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer guns to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in the near future, as confirmed by sources familiar with the developments. Should the CCS approve this proposal, Larsen and Toubro (L&T) will receive repeat orders for these 155-mm, 52-calibre tracked artillery systems. The K-9 Vajra guns have already been deployed by the Indian Army along sensitive borders, specifically at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
Although the procurement process for these howitzers was initiated over a year ago, delays have occurred, partly due to the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, according to insiders. The K-9 Vajra guns are noteworthy for their performance in both extreme heat and cold conditions, making them a critical addition to the Army’s artillery capabilities. Production of the K-9 Vajras is taking place at L&T’s Armoured Systems Complex in Gujarat, which has incorporated substantial local components into the manufacturing process. This move reflects India’s push for self-reliance in the defense sector, known as “aatmanirbharta.”
Each K-9 Vajra howitzer has a weight of 50 tonnes and a firing range that exceeds 50 kilometers, significantly bolstering the Indian Army’s firepower. L&T initially secured the contract for the manufacture of these guns in 2017 and successfully exceeded delivery expectations, completing the order for 100 units ahead of schedule by 2021. The initial contract was valued at ₹4500 crore, but industry sources suggest that the cost for this new batch of 100 guns will likely be considerably higher. The anticipated induction of these advanced artillery systems is expected to further enhance the capabilities of the Indian Army, ensuring readiness and effectiveness in addressing regional security challenges.
