Indian Army gets howitzers ahead of schedule
Larsen and Toubro (L&T) delivered the 51st of 100 K9 Vajra-T 155mm L/52 tracked SPHs ordered by the Indian Army on 16 January, to coincide with Army Day.
Manufactured at L&T’s Armoured Systems Complex (ASC) in Hazira, Gujarat, the K9s represent the first major ‘Make in India’ programme of the army. They have been delivered months ahead of schedule, proving that the private sector, when committed, can deliver.
L&T partnered with South Korea’s largest defence company Hanwha Defense to adapt the K9 Thunder to produce the Vajra variant. This was done through domestic manufacture by training a team of engineers
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum
As Germany prepares its €25 billion order under the Arminius framework – the biggest Boxer procurement to date – the platform could become an increasingly powerful contender in European competitions.
-
Trans-European iMUGS2 uncrewed systems programme set for three-day exercise in 2028
The next stage of the Integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System (iMUGS) programme, dubbed iMUGS2, was launched in November 2025. Three major demonstrations are planned before the end of 2028.
-
British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward
The UK Ministry of Defence has proposed a selection date of May 2027 for the Land Rover replacement requirement, with deliveries expected through to 2036. Next month’s DVD exhibition will be a key shop window for bidders.
-
Snow patrol and access all areas: the Arctic all-terrain vehicles market grows
The procurement and planned procurement of articulated tracked all-terrain vehicles is being driven by a need to replace older platforms and an acknowledgement of a capability gap for Arctic regions.
-
Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier
A move, launched in May, could lead to a second supplier for the US Marines Corps’ Joint Light Tactical Vehicle requirement. Meanwhile, Wisconsin elected representatives have been pushing for necessary funding to be included in the FY27 budget.