The Union government of India is preparing to approve several significant defence deals after the upcoming elections. Among these is a plan to spend over Rs 6,000 crore to acquire 100 additional K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance the country's military capabilities.

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Image Source: Vivekananda International Foundation

India Advances Defense Projects, Including Expansion of K-9 Vajra Deployment

These defence projects, pending final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security, include the procurement of engines for 30 Su-30 MKI fighter jets. These engines will be built domestically under the Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative, according to senior defence officials.

Additional projects set for approval include missile development initiatives aimed at advancing research and development in defence technology.

K-9 Vajra
What is K- 9 Vajra

The K-9 Vajra, a 50-tonne artillery vehicle capable of firing shells over 50 kilometers, has already been deployed along India's borders with Pakistan and China. The acquisition of 100 more units is expected to be approved soon to bolster the Indian Army's capabilities further.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized that his government will make swift decisions and prioritize these defence projects once re-elected. Another major project includes the procurement of approximately 200 engines for Su-30 fighter jets.

These engines will be manufactured under license at Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd's Koraput facility as part of the 'Make In India' initiative, reinforcing the government's commitment to domestic defence production.

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