Def min inks ₹7.6k cr deal with L&T for Vajra guns

The defence ministry has signed a ₹7,628 crore contract with major defence manufacturer Larsen & Toubro to procure self-propelled artillery guns for the Army that will add to combat capabilities, particularly in high altitude areas like Eastern Ladakh.

The contract for 100 guns was inked on Friday, days after it was cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security. The Army already has 100 of the K9 Vajra guns that are manufactured by L&T at its Hazira plant.

"This versatile artillery gun, with its cross-country mobility, will play a pivotal role in enhancing the firepower of the Indian Army, enabling deeper strike with precision and its lethal firepower will bolster the capability of artillery in all terrains," defence ministry officials said.


With the capability of accurate fire and quick maneuvering to move out of enemy range, these guns have already been deployed successfully in the Ladakh theatre with the Army appreciating their performance in extreme conditions. "The gun is equipped with cutting-edge technology and is capable of delivering long-range lethal fires with high accuracy and higher rate of fire. It will be able to operate in sub-zero temperatures in high-altitude areas to its full potential," officials added. Domestic production of the guns will generate employment of more than nine lakh man-days over a period of four years and will involve scores of suppliers, including from MSMEs. The guns have been upgraded to meet the special requirements of the Army for operations in high altitude regions with extreme weather conditions.