Defence Ministry signed contracts worth ₹6,900 crore with Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited for procurement of 155mm/52 calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and High Mobility 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles. This acquisition is aimed at enhancing artillery firepower of Indian Army.
Key Highlights of Agreement
Significant Defence Procurement
- MoD has signed capital procurement contracts worth ₹1.40 lakh crore in FY 2024-25, reinforcing India’s commitment to modernizing its defence forces.
Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS)
- ATAGS is designed to replace older, smaller-calibre guns currently in service.
- The new artillery system will provide greater precision, extended range, and improved lethality.
- The induction of ATAGS marks a major step in modernizing the Indian Army’s Artillery Regiments, significantly improving operational readiness and strike capabilities.
- Effective firing range: 48.074 km
First Major Towed Gun Procurement from Private Sector
- This acquisition is a landmark development in India’s defence manufacturing as it is the first large-scale towed gun procurement from private companies.
- The deal will strengthen the indigenous defence ecosystem, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
Boost to Indian Defence Industry
- The project will provide a significant push to India’s domestic gun manufacturing industry.
- The involvement of Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems will promote innovation, technological advancement, and self-sufficiency in defence production.
Significance of Acquisition
Enhanced Firepower for Indian Army:
- The ATAGS system will increase precision and strike capabilities, allowing for long-range and accurate artillery support during combat.
Indigenous Defence Manufacturing:
- Strengthens Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
- Reduces dependence on foreign artillery procurement.
Operational Readiness:
- Ensures modernization of artillery regiments, making them more capable of handling emerging threats.
- Strengthens India’s border defence and combat capabilities.