The Ministry of Defense has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Larsen and Toubro (L&T) for the purchase of 52 caliber K9 VAJRA-T self-propelled tracked artillery guns for the Indian Army at a total cost of Rs 7,628.70 crore.

The contract was signed in Delhi on Friday by senior officials of the Ministry of Defense and representatives of L&T in the presence of Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The MoU is expected to significantly strengthen the military’s strike capability.

The gun, equipped with cutting-edge technology, is capable of delivering deadly shots at long range with high precision. It will be able to operate fully at subzero temperatures in high-altitude areas, the Defense Ministry said in a statement.

Recently, the cabinet committee approved the acquisition of 100 additional K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers strengthening the Army’s capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

The acquisition of the K9 Vajra-T will catalyze artillery modernization and improve the overall operational readiness of the Indian Army, the ministry said.

“This versatile artillery gun, with its mobility across the country, will play a pivotal role in enhancing the firepower of the Indian Army, enabling deeper and precise strikes, and its lethal firepower will strengthen the capability of artillery in all terrains,” he said.

“The project will generate employment of over nine lakh man-days over a period of four years and encourage active participation of various Indian industries, including MSMEs,” the ministry said, adding that it would be “the proud flag bearer” of the project. Aatmanirbar Bharat Initiative.