The Ministry of Defence received a proposal from the Indian Army to buy 310 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) for deployment along the borders with China and Pakistan, marking a significant step towards ‘Make-in-India’ in the defense sector. The Indian Army has submitted a proposal worth more than USD 1 billion, which is currently being discussed.
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Indian Army to Buy 310 Indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System- Key Points
- This would be the first order for the indigenous howitzer, which can strike targets at distances of up to 50 kilometers and is thought to be the best gun in its class.
- The forces have been testing the gun at various altitudes and terrain. They have been upgraded based on user suggestions.
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has shared raw howitzer technology and know-how with two private firms, Tata Advanced Systems, and Bharat Forge Group, and they will supply the system to the forces, which will include over 320 high mobility vehicles.
- The 155mm/52 caliber Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) trials were completed at the Pokhran Field Firing Range (PFFR) between April 26 and May 2.
- The ATAGS is an indigenous towed artillery gun system project undertaken in mission mode by the DRDO as part of the Indian Army’s artillery modernization program.
- The Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune is the DRDO’s nodal laboratory for the design and development of ATAGS.
- The development was carried out in collaboration with two industry partners, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, and Bharat Forge Ltd, as well as active participation from other industries.
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