Post-Election Approvals Pending for Key Indian Defence Projects, Including K-9 Vajra Howitzers and Fighter Jet Engines

India awaits final approval for crucial defence projects, including K-9 Vajra howitzers and Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft engines, post-elections, with significant roles for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro.

Several significant 'Made in India' defence projects are awaiting final approval from the Centre, expected to be decided after the elections. These projects include the acquisition of additional K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers and engines for Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft. Initially planned for approval in March, these deals were postponed due to the elections.

A defence official informed ANI that proposals for K-9 Vajra howitzers, Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft engines, and various research and development projects are on the agenda for the Cabinet Committee on Security.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to play a crucial role in manufacturing these fighter aircraft engines. Valued at approximately Rs 20,000 crore, these engines are produced at HAL's Koraput facility in Odisha, which has achieved a high level of indigenisation. The Indian Air Force regularly acquires these engines, but recent global developments and the pandemic have increased the demand, prompting a need for a swift post-election decision.

The Indian Army has also requested an additional 100 K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers. Initially designed for operations in plains and desert regions, the K-9 Vajra has also proven effective in the Ladakh sector. The Army has procured winterisation kits to ensure the howitzers perform optimally in extreme cold conditions. Developed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in collaboration with South Korea's Hanwha Defense, the K-9 Vajra is based on the K9 Thunder platform. This partnership has been praised for its timely delivery and effective technology transfer. Hanwha Aerospace is now looking to offer more advanced systems and military platforms to India, building on this successful collaboration.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has several research and development programmes awaiting government clearance. Prior to the imposition of the model code of conduct, the Centre had approved the purchase of 61 close-in weapon systems and high-powered radars. Proposals from the Defence Ministry, Army, Navy, and Indian Coast Guard have been submitted for inclusion in the government’s 100-day and 6-month agendas.

Senior government officials have indicated that work on these projects will commence soon after the elections. Additionally, large indigenous deals, such as the Rs 65,000 crore project for 97 LCA Mark 1A aircraft, are progressing steadily.

The K-9 Vajra, a 155 mm, 52-calibre tracked self-propelled howitzer, was developed in India by L&T with technology from South Korea's Hanwha Defense. Originally intended for desert operations, it has been effectively deployed in mountainous regions following the India-China standoff. The successful deployment has reinforced the need for additional units to bolster India’s defence capabilities in various terrains.

The pending approvals highlight India's commitment to bolstering its defence capabilities through indigenous production and strategic international collaborations. The final decisions, expected post-elections, will significantly impact the modernization and readiness of India's armed forces.