The Indian Army has initiated a significant move towards modernizing its artillery by issuing a tender for the procurement of next-generation towed artillery guns. This ambitious Rs 7,000 crore project is part of a broader effort to upgrade India’s military capabilities, emphasizing the development and manufacturing of advanced defense systems domestically. The acquisition involves 400 new gun systems in the initial phase, with expectations for further orders as the Army looks to replace its aging equipment.
Focus on Indigenous Development
In line with the government’s “Make in India” initiative, the procurement mandates that these new artillery guns must be designed and developed within India. The tender specifies that more than 50% of the components must be indigenous, based on the contract value. This requirement aligns with the ongoing efforts to enhance India’s self-reliance in defense production and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers.
The tender has sparked significant interest among private defense manufacturers in India, who have been investing heavily in the development of artillery systems in recent years. Among the frontrunners are Larsen & Toubro, Bharat Forge, and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd., all of which have a proven track record in defense manufacturing.
Key Contenders and Their Offerings
Larsen & Toubro (L&T), which has already supplied the Indian Army with K9 Vajra self-propelled artillery guns, is a major contender in this race. The K9 Vajra, a 155mm/52 caliber tracked self-propelled howitzer, has been praised for its advanced technology and operational effectiveness, setting a high benchmark for the new towed artillery guns that L&T might offer.
Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. are also strong competitors, having developed the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The ATAGS, a 155mm/52 caliber gun, is designed to be one of the most advanced towed artillery systems globally, boasting superior range, accuracy, and automation features.
Modernization and Technological Advancements
The new artillery systems sought by the Indian Army will feature significant advancements over the existing equipment. The tender specifies that these guns should be lighter, more versatile, and equipped with higher levels of automation and accuracy. These enhancements are crucial for improving the operational flexibility of the Indian Army, particularly in challenging terrains such as the northern borders.
Additionally, the new guns will be capable of firing a wider range of specialized ammunition, an essential feature for meeting the diverse requirements of modern warfare. This capability will align India’s artillery with future military needs, ensuring that the Army can effectively respond to a variety of combat scenarios.
Strategic Implications
Currently, the majority of India’s artillery consists of 130mm field guns, which are being upgraded to 155mm under the Sharang project. The shift towards 155mm/52 caliber systems represents a significant upgrade in firepower, range, and precision. The Army’s initial requirement for 400 guns is part of a larger plan to procure over 1,200 such artillery guns, which will be carried out in phases due to budgetary constraints.
This phased approach allows the Indian Army to manage its budget effectively while gradually enhancing its artillery capabilities. The ongoing modernization efforts also include the finalization of a contract for the ATAGS, indicating a sustained focus on upgrading the Army’s firepower.
Boost to Domestic Defense Manufacturing
The procurement of these advanced artillery systems is not just a step towards modernizing India’s military infrastructure but also a strategic move to bolster the country’s domestic defense manufacturing sector. By encouraging the development and production of these systems within India, the government aims to build a robust defense industrial base capable of meeting both domestic and international demands.
The Indian Army’s decision to acquire next-generation towed artillery guns marks a significant milestone in its ongoing modernization efforts. The Rs 7,000 crore project underscores the importance of indigenous development in strengthening national defense and enhancing the country’s strategic capabilities. As private defense companies compete for this lucrative contract, the focus remains on delivering cutting-edge technology that meets the Army’s evolving needs while contributing to India’s long-term goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.