Indian Army Begins Acquisition of Next-Generation Artillery Guns Worth ₹7,000 Crore
The Indian Army has launched a major procurement drive to enhance its artillery capabilities by acquiring more powerful, lighter, and technologically advanced artillery guns. Valued at around ₹7,000 crore, this acquisition is a crucial part of the broader strategy to modernize the country’s defense infrastructure and align it with contemporary warfare requirements. The move signifies India's shift towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing, as the tender emphasizes that the guns must be designed, developed, and built within the country, with over 50% indigenous content.
At the core of this procurement is the demand for 400 next-generation towed artillery guns in the initial phase, with the potential for more orders as older systems are phased out. These guns, primarily 155mm/52 caliber, are expected to be lighter, more versatile, and far more capable than the systems currently in service, including the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) developed by Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd in partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These two companies, along with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), which previously delivered the K9 Vajra self-propelled guns to the army, are seen as key contenders for this massive order.
One of the standout features of these next-gen systems is their higher levels of automation and precision, which will significantly enhance the army’s operational flexibility. They are designed to be more adaptable and capable of firing a diverse range of specialized ammunition, making them well-suited to future combat scenarios. The automation improvements will not only reduce the crew required to operate these guns but also enhance their deployment speed and accuracy, key factors in modern artillery warfare.
Currently, India’s artillery backbone comprises primarily 130mm field guns, many of which are being upgraded to 155mm under the Sharang project. The shift to 155mm caliber is consistent with global trends, offering improved range, firepower, and effectiveness. The army’s tender specifies a total requirement exceeding 1,200 guns of this type, though the initial procurement will be done in phases to manage budgetary constraints.
This purchase represents a significant opportunity for India’s private defense sector, which has seen considerable investments in recent years. Companies like Bharat Forge, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, and L&T have poured resources into developing indigenous artillery solutions, and this order would be a major validation of those efforts. Moreover, this deal aligns with the government's "Make in India" initiative, aimed at bolstering domestic defense production and reducing reliance on imports.
The advanced 155mm/52 caliber guns being sought are expected to outperform the existing ATAGS in terms of weight, versatility, and automation. These upgrades are critical as the army gears up to meet evolving battlefield challenges, where faster mobility, higher precision, and the ability to fire various types of ammunition will be decisive.
The phased approach to procurement underscores the complexity and long-term nature of this modernization drive. Alongside this, the army is progressing with other artillery acquisitions, further broadening its firepower capabilities. The successful completion of this tender will mark a significant milestone in India’s defense evolution, ensuring that the nation’s armed forces remain well-equipped and strategically prepared.
Overall, this procurement is not just about acquiring new artillery systems; it’s a step towards establishing a robust, self-reliant defense manufacturing ecosystem capable of meeting the future needs of the Indian Army.
