Indian Army's Strategic Shift: Embracing Self-Propelled Artillery for Modern Warfare

Defense News , India :-  In the evolving landscape of military strategy, the Indian Army is set to acquire an additional 100 K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers, sparking a crucial debate on the role of self-propelled artillery in its future arsenal.

The recent conflict in Ukraine has brought to light the vulnerability of towed artillery to counter-battery fire, emphasizing the paramount importance of survivability and rapid deployment in contemporary warfare.

Advocating for Self-Propelled Artillery​

The distinct advantages of wheeled and tracked self-propelled howitzers over towed systems have become increasingly evident. Combining potent firepower with quick maneuverability and re-positioning capabilities enhances survivability against enemy attacks.

India's strategic vision involves acquiring more than 800 wheeled self-propelled howitzers and expanding its tracked artillery fleet, signaling a growing acknowledgment of the imperative need for such capabilities.

Overcoming Setbacks and the Potential for Resurgence​

The cancellation of the Bhim tracked self-propelled howitzer program, a collaborative effort with South Africa's Denel, left a void in India's tracked howitzer development. Nevertheless, indigenous efforts have yielded breakthroughs, including the successful development of the ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System) and its derivative, the Mounted Gun System.

Officials from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) assert that the ATAGS gun technology can easily be adapted to a tracked platform. A substantial order commitment (of at least 300 units) has the potential to rejuvenate a domestically produced tracked howitzer.

Striking a Balance and Planning for the Future​

Former Army Chief Gen Naravane has been a vocal proponent of reducing reliance on towed howitzers in favor of self-propelled systems. This stance aligns with the lessons learned from the Ukraine War, highlighting the importance of rapid deployment and survivability against advanced threats like loitering munitions.

As the Indian Army steers through its artillery modernization program, a critical decision looms. Self-propelled systems are increasingly recognized as a vital requirement for future battlefields.

Revitalizing a tracked howitzer based on ATAGS technology provides a pathway towards self-reliance, offering a tailored solution to India's unique terrain and operational challenges.