Exercise Vajra Ghaat, Objective, Outcome, K9 Vajra

The Indian Army recently conducted Exercise Vajra Ghaat at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer to assess the performance of the K9 Vajra self-propelled artillery system in desert conditions. The drill showcased the Army’s readiness to operate heavy artillery in the harsh and demanding terrain of the Thar Desert.

Exercise Vajra Ghaat Objective

The primary purpose of the exercise was to test and validate refined Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs). These updated methods are aimed at improving battlefield survivability, mobility, and overall operational efficiency during combat situations.

The exercise was led by the White Tiger Division, which demonstrated the Army’s ability to quickly deploy and operate heavy artillery in desert warfare scenarios.

Exercise Vajra Ghaat Outcome

The successful validation of these refined TTPs is expected to strengthen the Indian Army’s combat readiness, particularly along the western front.

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About K9 Vajra

• The K9 Vajra is a tracked, self-propelled howitzer based on South Korea’s K9 Thunder system.
• It is built for long-range, high-accuracy fire and can use both Indian and NATO-standard ammunition. 
• The gun system is protected by all-welded steel armour, ensuring crew safety in combat conditions.
• India procured the system under the ‘Buy Global’ category of the Defence Procurement Procedure.
• Capable of firing at ranges of over 40 km. 
• Designed for rapid movement and “shoot-and-scoot” operations to avoid counter-fire. 
• Manufactured in India by Larsen & Toubro in partnership with South Korea’s Hanwha, with an initial order placed in 2017. 
• Built to operate across varied terrains, including deserts, plains, and high-altitude areas.