The Indian Ministry of Defence has signed a deal worth Rs. 7,629 crore for 100 K-9 Vajra-T self-propelled tracked guns, enhancing artillery capabilities along the border with China. This procurement aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promising to boost domestic production and create employment opportunities. The new systems will be integrated over the next four to five years, integrating advanced technologies for improved performance even in extreme conditions.

The Ministry of Defence of India has recently finalized a substantial procurement deal valued at Rs. 7,629 crore with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) to secure an additional 100 K-9 Vajra-T self-propelled tracked gun systems. These advanced artillery systems are designed for deployment in high-altitude regions along India’s border with China, significantly enhancing operational capabilities. With a firing range of 28 to 38 kilometers, these new units will complement the existing fleet of 100 similar guns already in service since their initial procurement in 2017. This strategic enhancement aligns with the government’s initiative to promote self-reliance in defense production under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ program and is expected to create considerable employment opportunities within the country.

The induction of these K-9 Vajra-T systems into the Indian Army is anticipated to occur over the next four to five years. These advanced artillery pieces will be equipped with cutting-edge technology that ensures superior firing range, precision, and rapid firing capabilities, even in extreme cold weather conditions. An official highlighted the capabilities of these new guns, stating, “These advanced guns will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, capable of delivering precise and rapid fire over long distances, even in sub-zero temperatures at high altitudes.”

Furthermore, the Cabinet Committee on Security, presided over by the Prime Minister, has sanctioned this initiative, emphasizing its potential contribution to strengthening the Army’s artillery capabilities. One official remarked that the versatility of the K-9 Vajra-T, including its cross-country mobility, will significantly enhance the Army’s lethal firepower and facilitate long-range precision strikes across diverse terrains. This procurement is part of a broader strategy to advance the Indian Army’s capabilities in artillery, leveraging insights gained from recent global conflicts, particularly the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

In addition to the K-9 Vajra-T systems, future plans include acquiring 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) under an Rs. 8,500 crore deal, which boast a firing range of up to 48 kilometers. The Army is also slated to initiate trials for 300 “shoot-and-scoot” mounted gun systems and 400 versatile towed artillery systems in the forthcoming year. This ongoing development showcases India’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities while fostering domestic manufacturing and job creation among Indian enterprises, notably micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). An official underscored the employment potential of this initiative, stating, “This project will provide jobs to more than 9 lakh people over four years.”

Overall, these initiatives signify a robust approach by the Indian government to enhance national defense capabilities while promoting domestic production and creating substantial employment opportunities.

The current procurement deal for the K-9 Vajra-T self-propelled tracked gun systems is a significant step taken by the Indian government to enhance its military capabilities, particularly in light of increasing tensions along its borders. Artillery systems have been pivotal in modern warfare, as evidenced by insights derived from the recent Russia-Ukraine conflict, where artillery contributed to a substantial percentage of casualties. The focus on long-range and precise artillery systems demonstrates India’s commitment to strengthening its defense amid regional security concerns while also fulfilling the objectives of self-reliance in defense manufacturing as articulated in the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

In conclusion, the recent agreement for the procurement of 100 K-9 Vajra-T self-propelled tracked gun systems represents a strategic advancement in the Indian Army’s artillery capabilities. This initiative not only aims to fortify defense positions along critical borders but also aligns with the government’s broader goals of self-sufficiency and economic growth through job creation in the defense sector. As the Indian Army continues to expand and modernize its capabilities, initiatives like these are crucial for maintaining national security and operational readiness.

Original Source: www.india.com

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