For a total of USD 254 million, the South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace has finalized an agreement with the Indian Army for the sale of new 155mm K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers. This new contract represents a continuation of the agreements signed in 2017, under which the South Korean company supplied a hundred locally manufactured self-propelled howitzers in partnership with Indian firms to equip the force.
Officially designated as Vajra, this 155mm self-propelled howitzer is based on South Korea’s K9 Thunder and is manufactured under license for the Indian Army. For over a decade, India has incorporated this system with the goal of acquiring a new Artillery Combat Vehicle designed for deployment in the challenging mountainous terrain of the country’s north. Hanwha Aerospace’s proposal resulted in the sale of a total of 100 K9 Vajra units under a contract signed in 2017.
Subsequently, the Indian Ministry of Defence and the Army had been evaluating and negotiating the procurement of a second batch of one hundred units to further their artillery modernization program. These negotiations were formalized through a new agreement reached with the Indian firm Larsen & Toubro Limited at the end of 2024 for another 100 units.
Three months later, the purchase has taken another step forward, confirming that Hanwha Aerospace, in collaboration with L&T, will supply a second batch of K9 self-propelled howitzers to India, with 60% of the components manufactured locally. “With a proven performance in Eastern Europe, Hanwha’s K9 self-propelled howitzer is expanding its presence in the Asian defense market,” stated a company representative.
Notably, the information revealed so far does not specify the exact number of units included in the second batch. However, based on the agreement signed in December, it is estimated to include around one hundred (100) 155mm K9 Vajra howitzers with a 52-caliber barrel, which will be manufactured locally at the Industrial Complex located in the suburb of Hazira, in the city of Surat.
It should not be overlooked that India has consolidated its position as a key player in the defense sector in Asia, creating new opportunities for various companies, including Hanwha Aerospace. Regarding this, the company’s CEO, Son Jae-il, emphasized: “With the superior performance of the K9 howitzer and our proven ability to deliver on time, we are committed to strengthening cooperation with various nations in the Asian defense market, expanding our presence beyond Europe,” stated Hanwha Aerospace CEO Son Jae-il.
Finally, the Indian Ministry of Defence stated in a press release: “The acquisition of the K9 VAJRA-T will drive the modernization of artillery and enhance the overall operational readiness of the Indian Army. This versatile artillery gun, with its cross-country mobility, will play a crucial role in increasing the Indian Army’s firepower, enabling deeper and more precise strikes.”
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