In a significant move for India’s defense capabilities, the Ministry of Defence has entered into a substantial procurement deal with two domestic firms to acquire 307 indigenously developed towed artillery systems. Valued at 69 billion Indian rupees, which is approximately $805 million, this contract stands as the largest defense procurement effort within India, highlighting the push for self-reliance in military manufacturing.
The contract has been allocated between Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited in a distribution ratio of 60 to 40 percent. Bharat Forge is tasked with supplying 184 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS), which accounts for 41.40 billion Indian rupees or around $483 million. Meanwhile, Tata Advanced Systems will provide the remaining 123 artillery guns, further strengthening India’s defense production capabilities.
As part of this agreement, the deal also encompasses the provision of 327 high mobility 6×6 gun towing vehicles, which are crucial for the effective transport and deployment of these artillery systems.
The ATAGS, developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment—a branch of the government-owned Defence Research and Development Organisation—was a collaborative effort with both Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems. Designed to replace the older, less efficient 105mm and 130mm caliber artillery guns currently in use, the ATAGS will equip 15 Indian Army artillery regiments, modernizing the country’s military arsenal.
The system, which has successfully passed a range of rigorous tests across various terrains throughout India, boasts advanced features including a firing range exceeding 40 kilometers (approximately 25 miles). It incorporates state-of-the-art fire control systems, precision targeting capabilities, automated loading mechanisms, and sophisticated recoil management technologies.
A noteworthy aspect of the ATAGS is its emphasis on domestic production, with over 65 percent of its components being sourced from within India. This includes critical elements such as barrels, muzzle brakes, breech mechanisms, firing and recoil systems, and ammunition handling mechanisms, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering indigenous defense manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
This monumental contract not only demonstrates India’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities but also signifies a pivotal step in enhancing the country’s technological self-sufficiency in military hardware.
