India Strengthens Border Defense: ₹7,000 Crore ATAGS Artillery Deal Ushers in a New Era of Military Power

New Delhi has just marked a significant step in modernizing its military. The Cabinet Committee on Security approved a ₹7,000 crore deal to buy 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS). Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), these advanced guns aim to enhance the Indian Army’s artillery capabilities.

This move is the largest-ever domestic artillery acquisition, part of India’s push for self-reliance in defense known as Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The ATAGS guns will replace outdated 105mm and 130mm artillery, featuring improved range, accuracy, and firepower. They have a maximum firing range of over 48 km, essential for operations along the tricky northern and western borders with countries like China and Pakistan.

Local Production and Job Creation

Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge will manufacture these guns, each producing about 150 guns over the next 6-7 years. This massive order underscores a major milestone for Indian private defense companies, with more than 70% of the components sourced locally. This local focus is crucial for boosting India’s defense industrial base and creating around 20 lakh man-days of employment.

According to a recent report by the Defence Ministry, indigenous defense manufacturing has grown significantly, reaching approximately ₹82,000 crore in 2022-23. This development is vital for reducing reliance on foreign weaponry, bolstering national security, and creating jobs.

The Future of Artillery

With the ATAGS move solidified, the Army is looking ahead to a lighter, more mobile Towed Gun System (TGS). This new platform is meant for fast deployment in rough terrain where heavy guns may struggle. Procurement for TGS will likely involve both public and private sectors, again emphasizing the push for local manufacturing.

The ATAGS has undergone rigorous testing across diverse environments in India. It now boasts a sophisticated design with features like an electric drive and advanced sighting systems. This new generation howitzer places India among the world’s leading artillery producers.

Global Perspective

Experts see strong export potential for the ATAGS. Nations looking for modern artillery systems may consider India a reliable supplier, which could open doors for Indian defense firms in the global market. This aligns well with recent trends, as India’s defense exports surged, reaching over ₹13,000 crore last year, reflecting growing international interest in Indian-made defense equipment.

A Decade in the Making

The journey to this point began in 2013 when the ATAGS project launched, marking nearly ten years of research and development. With this deal, India is not just enhancing its military strength but also showcasing its capabilities in defense technology. The move aligns with India’s Make in India initiative, aiming to bolster production and innovation within the country’s defense sector.

Overall, this new chapter in India’s defense strategy emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and modernization, positioning the nation as a key player in the global defense landscape.

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