New Delhi, December 21, 2024: In a monumental step towards bolstering its military might, the Indian Ministry of Defence has signed a significant contract with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the procurement of 155 mm/52 calibre K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns. Valued at ₹7,628.70 crore, this deal underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its artillery capabilities under the “Buy (Indian)” category, promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Contract Details and Strategic Implications
The contract, signed on December 20, 2024, at South Block in New Delhi by senior officials of the Ministry and representatives of L&T, was witnessed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. This acquisition of the K9 VAJRA-T artillery guns will play a pivotal role in Indian Army modernization, focusing on equipping the forces with advanced self-propelled guns capable of cross-country mobility, precision strikes, and operating in extreme conditions like the sub-zero temperatures of high-altitude regions. The guns, with their lethal firepower, are set to enhance the Army’s offensive capabilities, particularly along the borders, contributing to the defence strategy against potential threats.
Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Larsen & Toubro Limited for procurement of 155 mm/52 calibre K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns for the Indian Army under Buy (Indian) category at a total cost of Rs 7,628.70 crore.https://t.co/xM9CtRLRqm
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) December 20, 2024
This deal is not just about augmenting military strength but also aligns with the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. It is projected to generate employment for more than nine lakh man-days over the next four years. The involvement of various Indian industries, including MSMEs, in this project underscores L&T’s role in fostering a robust domestic defence industry.
K9 VAJRA-T Technological Edge and Deployment
The K9 VAJRA-T, equipped with cutting-edge technology, offers high accuracy, an increased rate of fire, and can deliver long-range lethal firepower. These features make it an integral part of the Army’s strategy for deep strike capabilities. L&T, in collaboration with South Korean firm Hanwha Techwin, has already provided the Indian Army with 100 such guns under a previous contract, which have seen deployment in critical areas like Ladakh, showcasing their effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
With this contract, the Indian Army aims to standardize its artillery to the 155mm/52 calibre, planning for long-term capability enhancement up to 2042. The addition of these guns will complement existing and future artillery systems, including the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) and other modern gun systems, in the Army’s arsenal. This move not only bolsters the Army’s firepower but also signals India’s strategic intent to maintain a deterrent force capable of responding to multi-domain threats.
Conclusion
The signing of this contract with L&T for the K9 VAJRA-T guns marks a pivotal moment in India’s defence strategy, blending technological advancement with economic benefits, thereby strengthening national security. This deal is a clear indicator of India’s resolve to modernize its military with indigenous technology, ensuring operational readiness and contributing to the broader goal of self-reliance in defence.