The Indian Army has recently proposed to purchase 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) worth over $1 billion from the Ministry of Defence in India. This is significant step towards the ‘Make-in-India’ initiative in the defence sector. As earlier, Indian Army committed to modernize its defence capabilities and promoting indigenous production in the country.
The ATAGS is an indigenous howitzer that is considered the best gun in its class. The gun can strike targets at around 50 kilometers and has undergone extensive trials in various altitudes and terrains. The Indian Army has conducted rigorous testing of the gun. After which many upgrades based on user feedback, proves its reliability in both burst, intense, and sustained modes.
Image credit :- ANI
The ATAGS is the result of the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) mission mode project, in which the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) Pune served as the nodal laboratory for design and development, along with other DRDO laboratories. The DRDO has shared the technology and know-how of the howitzer with two private firms, Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Forge group, who will supply the system to the forces, including over 320 high mobility vehicles.
The purchase of the ATAGS not only modernizes India’s defence capabilities but also boosts domestic production and reduces dependence on imports. The ‘Make-in-India’ initiative aims to create jobs in the country and promote indigenous production in the defence sector.
In addition to its impressive range and accuracy, the ATAGS has several other features that make it the best gun in its class. Here are some of its key features:
Superior Firepower:
The ATAGS has a 155 mm/52 caliber gun that can fire up to five rounds per minute, making it one of the most powerful guns in its class. The gun has a high rate of fire, which is critical during intense combat situations.
Advanced Technology:
The ATAGS is equipped with advanced technology, including a digital fire control system that enhances the accuracy of the gun. The gun have electronic gun-laying system, making it easier for the operator to aim and fire the gun.
Mobility:
The ATAGS is highly mobile and towed by a variety of vehicles, making it easier to move to different locations. The gun can also be air-transportable, which is essential for quick deployment during emergency situations.
Adaptability:
The ATAGS is designed to operate in various terrains, including high altitude areas, desert, and plains. The gun can fire a range of ammunition
- High Explosive
- Smoke
- Illumination Rounds
making it adaptable to different situations.
In conclusion, the Indian Army’s proposal to purchase 307 ATAGS marks a significant step in the ‘Make-in-India’ initiative . The ATAGS is a highly advanced and reliable gun system that has undergone rigorous testing, making it the best gun in its class. The purchase of the ATAGS will modernizes India’s defence capabilities. It also boosts domestic production and reduces dependence on imports.
India’s Defence Ministry to Purchase $1 Billion Worth of Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) in Major ‘Make-in-India’ Initiative
