In a significant development affecting India’s artillery modernization efforts, the Indian Army has officially rejected a batch of upgraded Sharang 155mm/45-calibre artillery guns produced by the state-run Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL), citing serious quality deficiencies.
Out of the 300 guns contracted, AWEIL delivered 159 units. However, concerns quickly arose regarding inconsistent metallurgy, barrel performance issues, substandard machining, and failures to meet accuracy and safety standards revealed during trials. In light of these findings, the Army has placed the remaining 141 guns on indefinite hold following a thorough technical audit that confirmed the identified shortcomings.
Originally launched in 2018, the Sharang project aimed to enhance the life of legacy Soviet-era 130mm M-46 guns by converting them into advanced 155mm/45-calibre systems, which boast a range of up to 39 kilometers and compatibility with indigenous ammunition. This upgrade was seen as a pivotal element in India’s artillery rationalization plan, intended to streamline logistics and standardize calibers across the force.
The rejection of the Sharang guns raises alarming questions about AWEIL’s quality control measures as well as the reliability of public-sector-led defense modernization initiatives. The implications for operational capability are substantial, particularly as the decision delays the induction of upgraded medium artillery into essential formations, potentially creating capability gaps along India’s sensitive borders.
Furthermore, this setback places additional pressure on parallel artillery modernization programs, such as the ongoing induction of the Dhanush 155mm/45-calibre howitzer and the private-sector-developed ATAGS 155mm/52-calibre system. Analysts have cautioned that these delays might hinder India’s objective of achieving a standardized medium artillery inventory by 2030.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Defence is anticipated to launch a comprehensive review of AWEIL’s production processes. This review may lead to a range of actions, including penalties, contract renegotiation, or even potential blacklisting, depending on the outcomes of the inquiry.
In response to the current shortfall, the Army is expected to advocate for expedited induction of the ATAGS and consider placing additional orders for the Dhanush system. In the interim, the Army is likely to implement stopgap measures to ensure frontline artillery regiments remain adequately equipped and operational.
