The Indian Army is set to receive its indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) soon. The government has approved the procurement of 307 ATAGS howitzer cannons.
New Delhi: The Indian Army will soon receive the indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). The government has approved the purchase of 307 ATAGS howitzer cannons, significantly boosting the Indian artillery's firepower. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this cannon will be jointly manufactured by Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems. This deal is worth ₹7,000 crore, with Bharat Forge manufacturing 60% of the cannons and Tata Advanced Systems the remaining 40%.
Impressive 48-kilometer Range
With its 48-kilometer range, ATAGS will significantly enhance the Indian Army's firepower. The cannon will be equipped with a modern digital fire control system, increasing its precision targeting capabilities. It can also operate effectively in high-altitude areas, bolstering the Indian Army's firepower in border regions.
Following the Kargil War, the Indian Army has focused on modernizing its artillery. Previously, the army inducted 145 units of the M-777 howitzer from the US and the indigenous Dhanush cannons. Additionally, the K-9 Vajra artillery system has also been deployed. The arrival of ATAGS will accelerate the goal of upgrading the Indian Army's cannons to a 155mm caliber.
Lessons Learned from the Russo-Ukrainian War
The recent Russo-Ukrainian War has demonstrated the crucial role of artillery in modern warfare. Keeping this in mind, the Indian Army is actively upgrading its artillery. The aim is to have all cannons upgraded to a 155mm caliber by 2040, ensuring the Indian Army is prepared for any challenge. The deployment of ATAGS will make the Indian Army's firepower even more lethal and accurate, further strengthening border security.
