India–South Korea Defence Partnership

Recent developments provide for India and South Korea to deepen their defence partnership following collaboration on the K9 Vajra-T self-propelled howitzer. The K9 Vajra-T is in focus as an Indian adaptation of South Korea’s K9 Thunder 155 mm self-propelled howitzer.
The system comprises specified design features and performance parameters relevant to Indian Army operations.

K9 Vajra-T (Self-Propelled Howitzer): 

Dimension	Key Details
Type	K9 Vajra-T comprises a 155 mm, 52-caliber tracked self-propelled artillery system (howitzer).
Origin and adaptation	K9 Vajra-T is an Indian adaptation of South Korea’s K9 Thunder 155 mm self-propelled howitzer.
Manufacturing and technology transfer	Production comprises Larsen & Toubro, with technology transferred from South Korean defence major Hanwha Defense based on its K9 Thunder.
Customisation and operational terrains	Customisation provides for Indian Army operations in varied terrains: deserts, plains, and high-altitude regions.
Armour	Protection comprises all-welded steel armour up to 19 mm thick.
Engine	Propulsion comprises an MTU MT 881 Ka-500 diesel engine producing 1,000 horsepower.
Main armament and projectile types	Main armament comprises a 155 mm/52 calibre gun capable of firing high-explosive, smoke, and guided projectiles.
Weight and shell weight	Weight comprises 50 tonnes, and ammunition weight comprises 47 kg bombs.
Rate of fire	Fire rate comprises a burst rate of 3 rounds per 15 seconds, and a maximum rate of 6 to 8 rounds per minute for 3 minutes.
Range	Strike capability comprises engaging enemy targets at around 50 kilometres.
Mobility	Maneuver capability comprises turning around at zero radius at the same place where it is standing.
Fire control and MRSI	Fire control comprises a digital fire control system enabling Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI).