Induction of ATAGS: Strengthening India’s Artillery Power

*Induction of ATAGS: Strengthening India’s Artillery Power*

India is set to boost its defence strength with the induction of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) by February 2027. This marks a major step towards self-reliant and modern artillery forces.

*What is ATAGS?*

ATAGS is a 155mm/52 calibre long-range towed artillery gun system developed under DRDO’s leadership with Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Forge. It replaces older artillery with its high accuracy, long range, and quick deployment features.

*Key Features*

The gun has a firing range of up to 48 km, can be operational within 90 seconds, and supports multiple firing modes such as burst, intense, and sustained fire. Its electric drive system enhances reliability compared to traditional hydraulics. Additionally, it has an automatic ammunition loading system, onboard crane, and a wide arc of fire for greater destructive capability.

*Mounted Gun System (MGS)*

Alongside ATAGS, the Mounted Gun System (MGS) is being developed by DRDO’s VRDE. It adapts the same gun onto an 8×8 cross-country truck, enabling quick “shoot and scoot” operations to evade enemy counter-fire. It can deploy in 80 seconds and is capable of operating across terrains including deserts and mountains.

*Significance*

The induction of ATAGS and MGS will modernise the Army’s artillery regiments, enhance operational readiness, and reduce dependence on foreign imports with over 80% indigenous content. The government has already ordered 307 ATAGS and 327 towing vehicles worth ₹6,900 crore.

These indigenous systems will significantly strengthen India’s defence capability, enabling rapid, precise, and mobile artillery firepower essential for modern battlefield superiority and national security.