New Delhi: In a major push for indigenous defense manufacturing, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the procurement of 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) for the Indian Army at a cost of ₹7,000 crore. The deal, cleared on Wednesday, marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to modernize its artillery and reduce dependence on foreign imports.
ATAGS is the first indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured 155 mm artillery gun system. Equipped with a 52-calibre barrel, the gun can strike targets up to 45 km away, providing extended firepower capabilities. The new artillery system is expected to replace the outdated 105 mm and 130 mm guns currently in service.
Strategic deployment along borders
Sources in the defense establishment confirmed that the ATAGS will be deployed along India’s western and northern borders, enhancing operational readiness against Pakistan and China. “The deployment of these advanced systems will provide the armed forces with a significant strategic edge,” a senior official said.
The procurement includes 327 gun-towing vehicles to ensure mobility and quick deployment. With its high lethality and precision, the ATAGS will bolster the Indian Army’s ability to conduct long-range artillery strikes and reinforce border defenses.
‘Make in India’ milestone
The ATAGS project is a flagship initiative under ‘Make in India’, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with private industry players like Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems. More than 65% of its components are sourced domestically, including key subsystems such as the barrel, muzzle brake, breech mechanism, firing and recoil system, and ammunition handling mechanism.
The gun system features automated deployment and target engagement mechanisms, reducing response time in combat scenarios. Critical systems such as the navigation system, muzzle velocity radar, and sensors are also designed and sourced indigenously, minimizing reliance on foreign technology.
ATAGS to drive India’s defense exports
Defense officials believe that the induction of ATAGS will strengthen India’s position in the global defense export market. The system’s advanced features, long range, and superior firepower could attract international buyers, making India a potential exporter of artillery systems in the future.
A senior defense official highlighted the significance of this deal, stating, “This approval underscores India’s growing capability in indigenous defense manufacturing and self-reliance in critical military technologies.”
Long-term modernization plan
The ATAGS procurement is part of India’s broader military modernization strategy. Defense sources said the system will create a robust supply chain of spares and ensure seamless lifecycle maintenance, strengthening India’s long-term self-sufficiency in artillery technology.
With the CCS approval now in place, the focus will be on accelerating production and delivery timelines to ensure the Army is equipped with the latest firepower as soon as possible.
, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the procurement of 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) for the Indian Army at a cost of ₹7,000 crore. The deal, cleared on Wednesday, marks a significant milestone in India's efforts to modernize its artillery and reduce dependence on foreign imports.){kind=link}