Recently, the spotlight shone on the 51st dispatch of the K9 VAJRA-T Gun from the Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Armoured System Complex located in Hazira, Gujarat. The Defence Minister of India officiated this ceremonious send-off. This notable event has drawn attention to the many distinctive features of the K9 VAJRA-T as well as the strategic partnerships involved in its production.
About the K9 VAJRA-T
The K9 VAJRA-T 155mm/ 52 is a tracked self-propelled howitzer. For those unfamiliar with the term, a howitzer denotes a short gun designed to fire shells at high trajectories with low velocities. The K9 VAJRA-T bears close ties to the K9 Thunder, which forms an integral part of the South Korean Army.
This gun touts impressive firing capabilities, offering a high rate of fire even at an extended range. It proves its compatibility with both Indian and standard North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) ammunition. Additionally, it features construction out of all-welded steel armour protection material, courtesy of the K9 Thunder platform.
Partnership and Procurement
The development of the K9 gun took place under the ‘Buy Global’ programme of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP). This initiative permits foreign companies to participate in India’s defence productions. In the case of the K9, Hanwha Techwin of South Korea collaborates as the technology partner of L&T.
Significantly, L&T assembled the first 10 K9 Vajra guns in India, having imported them from South Korea. However, the remaining bulk of 90 guns will be largely manufactured domestically, underlining India’s commitment to ‘Make in India’ initiative.
K9 VAJRA-T Production in India
The ‘K9 VAJRA-T’ Tracked, Self-Propelled Howitzer Guns programme is currently under execution by L&T Defence. The Ministry of Defence awarded this contract to the company via global competitive bidding. This marks an important step in the augmentation of India’s defence production capabilities.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gun Type | 155mm/ 52 caliber Tracked Self-Propelled Howitzer |
| Roots | K9 Thunder – South Korean Army’s mainstay |
| Material | All-welded steel armour protection material |
| Technology Partner | Hanwha Techwin, South Korea |
| Number of Imported Guns | 10 |
| Number of Domestically Manufactured Guns | 90 |
| Contractor | L&T Defence |
Beyond the Gun: Broader Implications
The success story of the K9 VAJRA-T production signifies more than just the creation of a highly efficient weapon. It paints a vivid picture of international partnership, domestic skill enhancement, and dedicated defence efforts. As India continues to grow its indigenous defence manufacturing, the tale of K9 VAJRA-T will likely serve as both inspiration and benchmark.
