Indian Army to Begin Trials of DRDO's 155mm/52 Calibre Mounted Gun System Next Year

The Indian Army is gearing up to take a substantial leap in its artillery capabilities with the upcoming trials of the indigenously developed 155mm/52 calibre Mounted Gun System (MGS) in 2025. This cutting-edge system, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), represents a crucial advancement in India's defense landscape, reinforcing the nation's growing emphasis on self-reliance and indigenous production under the "Make in India" initiative.

The MGS is based on the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), which has already made a name for itself in the Indian artillery space. The mounted gun system combines the firepower of a powerful 155mm howitzer with the mobility of a high-speed, high-mobility vehicle. This fusion allows the system to quickly transition between driving and firing modes, providing a tactical edge in rapid deployment, especially in diverse terrains such as deserts, plains, and even semi-mountainous regions.

Lieutenant General Adosh Kumar, Director General of Artillery, recently confirmed the scheduled trials, marking a significant milestone in the Indian Army's artillery modernization drive. The MGS has already undergone extensive developmental trials, which included a rigorous 600-kilometer mobility test, demonstrating its endurance and reliability. These upcoming trials aim to finalize its operational readiness, bringing it one step closer to full-scale induction.

One of the standout features of the 155mm/52 calibre MGS is its remarkable range and accuracy. The system can strike targets as far as 48 kilometers, depending on the type of ammunition used. Its precision is enhanced by an automated gun alignment and positioning system, which reduces human error and the workload on the crew. This advanced system also shortens the time between movements and engagements, making it ideal for modern combat scenarios where agility and speed are essential.

Last year, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved the procurement of 800 units of the MGS. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to boosting the Indian Army’s firepower through indigenous means. The MGS is expected to become a cornerstone of India’s artillery force, complementing other advanced systems like the Dhanush, ATAGS, K9 Vajra, and towed artillery guns that are already being integrated into the force.

The development of the MGS is not just a military achievement but also a showcase of India's thriving defense manufacturing sector. Major private players such as Tata and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) have been instrumental in the production of this sophisticated artillery system. This collaboration highlights India's increasing capability to produce world-class defense equipment, reducing dependence on foreign imports.

The MGS stands out due to its combination of firepower and mobility. Mounted on a high-mobility 8x8 platform, it can traverse difficult terrains at speeds up to 80 km/h. This feature ensures that it can rapidly deploy, engage targets, and then reposition swiftly, a crucial advantage in modern-day warfare where speed and flexibility are key.

The gun’s 52-calibre barrel also contributes to its extended range, allowing it to strike enemy positions from a safer distance. Additionally, the system is compatible with various types of ammunition, including high-explosive, smoke, and illumination rounds, adding versatility to its combat role. These characteristics make the MGS a vital asset for both defensive and offensive operations, particularly in contested border regions.

The upcoming trials will be critical in fine-tuning the MGS before it enters full production. The system's ability to perform under different climatic and geographic conditions will be tested rigorously, ensuring that it can meet the diverse operational needs of the Indian Army. Given the challenges along India's borders, particularly with China and Pakistan, the MGS is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s defense posture.

In conclusion, the trials of the DRDO-developed Mounted Gun System represent a significant advancement in India’s military capabilities. With its cutting-edge technology, mobility, and firepower, the MGS is set to revolutionize the Indian Army's artillery arsenal, providing the force with enhanced operational flexibility and greater firepower. As India continues to strengthen its defense infrastructure, this indigenous system stands as a symbol of the country’s growing self-reliance in the global defense arena.