The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed contracts with Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced System Limited for the procurement of 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and High Mobility Vehicle 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles, respectively at a total cost of about Rs 6,900 crore.
It represents a significant stride towards bolstering the Indian Army’s operational readiness and advancing the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. These acquisitions are not merely procurement exercises but strategic investments in indigenous defense manufacturing and self-reliance.
The ATAGS, developed and produced by Indian companies, embodies the spirit of technological innovation and domestic production. Integrating this advanced artillery system into the Army’s arsenal will significantly enhance its firepower and tactical capabilities. Simultaneously, the procurement of High Mobility Vehicle 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles, likely also incorporating indigenous components, ensures the rapid and reliable deployment of these advanced artillery systems across varied terrains.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing indigenization and fostering a robust domestic defense ecosystem. By empowering Indian manufacturers and promoting technological advancements within the country, the MoD is not only equipping the armed forces with cutting-edge weaponry but also contributing to economic growth and job creation. These contracts exemplify a strategic approach to defense procurement, one that prioritizes self-reliance and strengthens India’s position as a responsible and capable regional power.