The Indian government is about to greatly increase the firepower available to the Indian Army. It is anticipated that a crucial cabinet committee meeting in August will approve the acquisition of an extra one hundred K9 Vajra tracked, self-propelled howitzers. This reorder comes after Larsen & Toubro (L&T) successfully delivered the first 100 K9 Vajras in 2022.
Originally meant for use in desert deployment, these howitzers were constructed utilizing technology obtained from South Korean defense major Hanwha Defense. Nonetheless, their ability to adapt was demonstrated during the 2020 Chinese military stalemate in eastern Ladakh.
For the K9s that were deployed, the Indian Army purchased winterization kits to guarantee peak performance in the challenging alpine environment. These kits, which include nine necessary elements, protect lubricants, oils, and batteries from extremely low temperatures (down to -20°C) and prevent freezing.
Also Read: India to help Armenia match Azerbaijan’s military power
The impending purchase complies with Indian defense procurement laws, which limit follow-up orders to amounts not to exceed the initial purchase. It is projected that the new howitzers will be delivered gradually, with all units arriving at the Indian Army by 2028.
With this important addition, India’s artillery capabilities would be strengthened and it will have a strategic advantage in protecting its borders.
Weighing around 50 tons, K9 Vajra howitzers are capable of firing artillery for a distance of over 50 kilometers.
The Center is in the process of clearing a number of defence deals, some of which are contingent upon final approval by the Cabinet committee on security.
The major projects include the over Rs 6,000 crore proposal to purchase 100 additional K9 Vajra self-propelled holders and the engines for the 30 MKI, which would be manufactured in India as part of the Atmanirbharta project. The initiatives that are scheduled for clearance by the Center also involve research and development projects related to missile development.
