Government starts process to buy 100 more K9-Vajras

Tags: Defence

The Defense Ministry has initiated the process to procure 100 more K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers, which are made in India by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) using technology transferred from South Korean defence major Hanwha Defence.

Important facts

• The 100th cannon was handed over to the army in 2021.

• In the 2020 standoff in eastern Ladakh, the Army deployed a regiment of these howitzers to augment its long-range firepower in a massive move by China across the Line of Actual Control.

• Encouraged by its improved performance, the Army is looking to eventually buy an additional 100 guns.

• The induction of Dhanush, K9-Vajra and M777 Ultra Light Howitzers has increased the artillery firepower on the northern frontiers.

About K9-Vajra

• The K-9 Vajra is a 155 mm, 52-calibre tracked self-propelled howitzer manufactured by L&T.

• It is based on the K-9 Thunder with technology transferred from South Korean defence major Hanwha Defence.

• The K-9 Vajra was primarily procured for use in the desert, but the standoff with China has prompted them to be deployed in the mountains as well.