K9 Vajra-T SPH

K9 Vajra-T SPH

Type: artillery

Domain: land

Country of Origin: India

Manufacturer: Hanwha Defense (South Korea) / L&T

Overview

Licensed production variant of the South Korean K9 Thunder 155mm/52-calibre tracked self-propelled howitzer, selected by India following competitive trials and manufactured by Larsen & Toubro under technology transfer. The Indian "Vajra-T" (Thunder) variant incorporates modifications for desert and high-altitude operations including auxiliary power unit for extended operations without main engine running, improved air filtration, enhanced cooling, and integration with Indian communications equipment. Features automatic ammunition handling for 9 rounds/minute rate of fire with MRSI (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact) capability, range of 40+ km with Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) ammunition, and a 48-round ready-ammunition storage. Powered by MTU diesel producing 1,000 hp. The K9 Vajra provides the Indian Army with modern self-propelled artillery after decades of reliance on towed guns and aging Soviet-era SPHs. 100 guns delivered with initial operational deployment by the 9th and 41st Field Regiments. Additional orders under consideration.

Technical Specifications

crew5
range40 km (base-bleed); 50+ km (RAP)
engineDoosan diesel (1,000 hp)
weight~47 tonnes
caliber155 mm / 52-caliber
based_onK9 Thunder (South Korea)
rate_of_fire6–8 rounds/min (burst); 2–3 rpm sustained
indigenous_content~50% (L&T India production)

Operators

Related land Weapon Systems