New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has inked contracts worth Rs 6,900 crore with Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced System Limited. These agreements, signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block, New Delhi, include the procurement of 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and High Mobility Vehicle 6ร6 Gun Towing Vehicles.
The signing of these contracts adds to the total capital procurement worth Rs 1.40 lakh crore undertaken by the MoD in the ongoing Financial Year 2024-25. This marks a decisive push toward modernizing Indiaโs defence infrastructure under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
During the signing ceremony, the Project Director of ATAGS from the Defence Research and Development Organisationโs (DRDO) Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, was felicitated by the Defence Secretary for his pivotal role in the realization of this indigenous artillery system.
Modernizing Artillery Regiments
The 155mm/52 Calibre ATAGS will replace outdated, smaller-calibre artillery guns, significantly enhancing the Armyโs long-range precision strike capability. ATAGS is known for its advanced lethality, extended range, and high accuracy, making it a game-changer in Indiaโs defense preparedness. The acquisition marks a major milestone in bolstering the artillery regiments with state-of-the-art indigenous weaponry.
This contract represents the first large-scale procurement of towed artillery guns from the private sector, highlighting the growing role of Indian defense manufacturers in national security. By fostering self-reliance in critical defense technologies, the deal strengthens Indiaโs commitment to reducing import dependence and building a robust indigenous defense ecosystem.
Boost to Domestic Defence Industry
The procurement of ATAGS and mobility vehicles aligns with the broader Make-in-India initiative, ensuring that domestic manufacturers take center stage in equipping the armed forces.
The involvement of private-sector giants Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced System Limited is expected to drive significant employment opportunities and boost the Indian defense manufacturing industry.
With increasing investments in indigenous defense production, the MoD continues to accelerate efforts towards self-sufficiency in military hardware, reinforcing Indiaโs strategic capabilities while fostering economic growth. The latest procurement highlights the governmentโs commitment to modernizing the armed forces and achieving Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defense production.
