CCS Approves ₹7,000 Crore ATAGS Procurement For Indian Army
- India South Asia
Shreya Naskar- 0
- 7 minutes read
In a significant move to enhance India’s defence preparedness, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has cleared a ₹7,000 crore deal for the procurement of Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS). Under this agreement, the Indian Army will receive 307 ATAGS from private domestic manufacturers, marking a major push for indigenous defence production under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. This procurement is a testament to India’s commitment to reducing defence imports and strengthening its self-reliance in military manufacturing. The acquisition of these advanced artillery systems will equip 16 artillery regiments, enhancing the Army’s firepower, mobility, and operational effectiveness.
Key Highlights of the ATAGS Deal
Total Cost: ₹7,000 crore. Number of Guns: 307 ATAGS. Manufacturing Companies: Bharat Forge: 60% of the order and Tata Advanced Systems: 40% of the order. End-Use: Deployment in 16 artillery regiments of the Indian Army. Indigenous Content: 65% of components are sourced locally. 155mm, 52-caliber artillery system with a firing range of 40+ km. Jointly developed by DRDO and private sector companies.
The approval of this deal highlights India’s efforts to modernize its armed forces, boost domestic defence production, and reduce dependence on foreign weapon systems.
The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) is a state-of-the-art, long-range, high-precision artillery system designed to replace older artillery guns in the Indian Army. It has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems.
1. Firepower and Range
The ATAGS is a 155mm, 52-caliber towed howitzer with an extended range of 40-48 km, surpassing most global artillery systems. It can fire various types of ammunition, including high-explosive, precision-guided, and extended-range projectiles.
2. Automation and Accuracy
Fully automated gun-laying and loading system, reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency. Digital fire control systems allow for accurate targeting and rapid response.
3. Mobility and Deployment
Lightweight and highly mobile, making it suitable for varied terrains, including mountainous and desert regions. Can be quickly deployed and repositioned for rapid-fire missions.
4. Indigenous Manufacturing
65% of the components are manufactured within India, supporting domestic industries. The development of ATAGS involves more than 200 Indian companies, fostering growth in the defence manufacturing sector.
Strategic Importance of ATAGS for India’s Defense
1. Strengthening Border Defenses
The deployment of ATAGS along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC) will enhance India’s capabilities against potential threats from China and Pakistan. The long-range artillery system can engage enemy targets with high precision, providing superior firepower in high-altitude warfare.
2. Reducing Dependence on Foreign Imports
Historically, India has relied on imported artillery systems, such as the Bofors (Sweden) and M777 Howitzers (USA). The Indigenous production of ATAGS will significantly reduce reliance on foreign defence suppliers, ensuring strategic autonomy in military procurements.
3. Boosting the Defense Industry and Employment
With Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems handling production, this order will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in India’s defence sector. The deal will encourage more private sector participation in defence manufacturing, leading to technological advancements and self-sufficiency.
4. Enhancing Combat Readiness
The Indian Army’s 16 artillery regiments equipped with ATAGS will have greater firepower, mobility, and flexibility, ensuring rapid response in conflict zones. The integration of ATAGS with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance systems will allow for more effective battlefield coordination.
The ₹7,000 crore ATAGS procurement is a landmark decision that will enhance India’s firepower, reduce reliance on imports, and boost the domestic defence industry. The deployment of 307 state-of-the-art howitzers will provide the Indian Army with a significant advantage in modern warfare, particularly along sensitive border regions. By fostering Indigenous defence manufacturing, this deal represents a major step toward military self-reliance and strengthens India’s strategic position on the global stage. As the Army integrates these advanced artillery systems, India moves closer to achieving its vision of a modern, technologically superior, and self-sufficient military force.
