K9 Vajra vs M109 Paladin: Self-Propelled Howitzers Face-off
In modern warfare, self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) serve as vital artillery platforms, combining mobility, firepower, and rapid deployment. Two of the most well-known SPHs in service today are the K9 Vajra-T, operated by India, and the M109A7 Paladin, a mainstay of the United States Army.
Both systems are engineered for high-intensity, long-range indirect fire support, but they differ significantly in origin, design philosophy, battlefield roles, and technical specifications.
This article offers a comprehensive comparison of the K9 Vajra vs M109 Paladin, helping you understand how these artillery giants stack up in a modern combat environment.
Over 950+ units of M109A7 ordered by U.S. Army.
Integrated with Precision Guidance Kit (PGK) and Excalibur rounds for pinpoint accuracy.
Forming backbone of U.S. artillery modernization.
| Feature | K9 Vajra-T (India) | M109A7 Paladin (USA) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | South Korea / India | United States |
| Caliber | 155mm/52 | 155mm/39 |
| Max Range | 40+ km (with ERFB shells) | 30–40 km (with RAP/Excalibur) |
| Crew Size | 5 | 4 |
| Max Speed | 67 km/h | 61 km/h |
| Rate of Fire | 6–8 rounds/min | 4 rounds/min |
| Deployed In | Desert, High-Altitude (India) | Global (multiple U.S. missions) |
| Production Partner | Larsen & Toubro (India) | BAE Systems (USA) |
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