India Deploys A Regiment Of K9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzer Along The LAC With China In Ladakh

The Indian Army has deployed a regiment of K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers in eastern Ladakh, along the Line of Actual Control with China, where the two countries have been locked in a standoff since last year.

The K9s have a maximum range of 28-38 km and can fire three rounds in 30 seconds in ‘burst’ mode, 15 rounds in three minutes in ‘intense’ mode, and 60 rounds in 60 minutes in the ‘sustained’ mode. The gun is also capable of direct firing with a range of 1 km

The 155mm/52-calibre K9s were built by L&T at Hazira in Gujarat with technology transfer from South Korean defence major Hanwha Defense. Under a deal signed in 2017, L&T supplied 100 of these guns to the Indian Army. The howitzers were delivered ahead of schedule, with the last one handed over to the Army in February 2021.

L&T also built 13 sub-systems of the gun, including fire control system, ammunition handling system and muzzle velocity radar at its facilities in Pune, Talegaon and Powai in Maharashtra.

Before a regiment of these guns was deployed along the LAC, at least three units were sent to Ladakh for high altitude trials.

“We are also examining whether more K-9 guns are needed,” Lieutenant general T K Chawla, Director General Artillery, said at a press conference on 27 September, ahead of the Gunners’ Day.