The delivery of India’s first indigenously produced artillery gun, the Dhanush, is facing significant delays, making it unlikely that the project will meet the planned March 2026 deadline. The Dhanush, an upgraded version of the Bofors gun, is being manufactured by Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL), a successor of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). Despite its promising capabilities, the slow pace of delivery has raised concerns within the Indian Army about meeting operational needs on time.
The Dhanush project, which aims to induct 114 guns by 2026, began with high hopes of reducing dependency on foreign suppliers. These artillery systems boast 80% indigenous content, making them a landmark achievement in India's military self-reliance. However, as of 2024, fewer than two regiments have become operational, a stark contrast to the initial expectations. Given that one regiment consists of 18 guns, this sluggish production pace may push the final delivery well beyond the set deadline.
Dhanush Gun Specifications and Capabilities
The Dhanush is a 155mm/45 calibre howitzer and represents a major leap forward from the old Bofors system. Its firing range of up to 36 kilometers surpasses the Bofors gun’s 30 kilometers, thanks to its longer barrel—approximately 877mm longer. This increased range provides the Army with greater flexibility in countering threats in hostile terrains, especially along challenging borders such as the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh. The Dhanush is capable of both day and night operations, a critical feature in modern warfare.
Not only is the Dhanush more capable than the Bofors in terms of range, but it also benefits from a series of technological upgrades. Equipped with modern targeting systems, electronic sights, and improved ordnance delivery, the Dhanush offers higher accuracy and efficiency. It is also built to withstand harsh terrain, making it ideal for deployment in remote, high-altitude areas like Ladakh.
Another significant advantage of the Dhanush is its cost-effectiveness. Each unit costs approximately ₹14 crore, which is significantly lower than the cost of importing foreign artillery systems like the Bofors. The high indigenous content also simplifies maintenance, ensuring a steady supply of spare parts within India, a critical aspect for long-term operational readiness.
Delays and Future Challenges
While the Dhanush project began with the induction of the first gun in April 2019, the current pace of production raises doubts about the Army’s ability to field the full 114-gun complement by 2026. Senior defense officials have expressed concern that, with just two years remaining, meeting the deadline is becoming increasingly unlikely.
The delays are compounded by the fact that the Army’s artillery modernization plans extend beyond the Dhanush. The Indian Army is in the process of acquiring several other 155mm artillery systems, including 300 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS), 300 Mounted Gun Systems (MGS), and 400 Towed Gun Systems (TGS) ,Additionally, the Army has already inducted 100 K9 Vajra-T guns, with plans to add 100 more. This extensive procurement effort is part of the Army’s broader strategy to standardize its artillery to the 155mm/52 calibre by 2042.
Lieutenant General Adosh Kumar, Director General of Artillery, outlined the long-term vision for India's artillery modernization. The Army has laid out plans extending to 2027, 2042, and even 2047, aimed at transforming India's artillery capabilities for decades to come.
Despite these ambitious plans, the Dhanush remains a critical component of the Indian Army's arsenal. Its indigenous design, superior range, and cost-effectiveness position it as a valuable asset. However, if the current pace of production persists, the full operational deployment of these advanced guns may be delayed, potentially impacting India's defense preparedness along crucial borders.
In conclusion, while the Dhanush represents a significant leap in India’s indigenous defense production capabilities, the project’s slow progress is causing concern. The Army’s push for modernization and standardization of artillery systems is essential, but the timely delivery of the Dhanush will be critical in ensuring that India remains prepared for future challenges.
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