The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹7,000 crore deal. This significant move aims to enhance the Indian Army’s indigenous artillery capabilities. It focuses on the procurement of Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS). This decision marks a major step toward modernizing the Army’s artillery by focusing on long-range, high-firepower indigenous solutions.
The Army is now set to move forward. They plan to acquire 307 ATAGS units. These are advanced 155mm howitzers. They were developed under a DRDO-led initiative started in 2013. The ATAGS have an impressive firing range of up to 45 kilometres. They are also being developed into Mounted Gun Systems (MGS). This is achieved by integrating them onto truck platforms. Trials are expected to conclude by 2026.
These state-of-the-art guns are being manufactured by Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). As per the deal, Bharat Forge placed the lowest bid. They will supply 60% of the order. TASL will deliver the remaining 40%.
General Upendra Dwivedi recently confirmed this information. The Army aims to finalize the ATAGS contract by the end of the current financial year.
The induction of ATAGS is part of the Army’s ongoing focus. They are strengthening their capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. This focus has been especially prominent following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020. The addition of ATAGS highlights the Army’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production. This aligns with the government’s “Make in India” vision.
Alongside ATAGS, the Army is also scaling up its deployment of the indigenous Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher systems. Presently operating four regiments of Pinaka, the Army plans to expand this to 22 regiments in the coming years.
Pinaka Rocket System Expansion to 22 Regiments in Progress
The Pinaka system has undergone significant upgrades. Its current range is extended to 72 kilometres. Future enhancements are aimed at reaching 90 to 120 kilometres. This extended range will surpass that of the Russian-made Smerch system. It will position Pinaka as a key long-range precision strike asset.
In addition, the Army is strengthening its fleet of K9 Vajra self-propelled artillery systems. Currently, 100 K9 Vajra units are operational, proven effective in varied terrains, including the high-altitude region of Ladakh. Plans are in place to add another 100 units by the end of 2025. This will further boost the Army’s firepower and mobility.
