In a significant endeavor to promote domestically designed and developed weapon systems, the Indian Army has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Defence for the acquisition of 400 howitzers from Indian manufacturers.
The Indian Army’s Artillery Regiment aims to harness the expertise of the Indian industry to deliver a 155 mm/52 caliber Towed Gun System that will possess characteristics such as reduced weight, enhanced versatility, and adaptability to future technological advancements. According to senior military officials, a proposal has been forwarded to the Ministry of Defence for the purchase of 400 155 mm/52 caliber towed gun systems (TGS) and accompanying towing vehicles from Indian companies, falling under the Buy Indian-IDDM (Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured) category. The government is expected to make a decision regarding the TGS procurement in an upcoming high-level meeting.
The Indian Army has already issued a tender for the acquisition of 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and is exploring options for a mounted gun system to fulfill its requirements along the borders with China and Pakistan. The aim is to produce a howitzer that is entirely Indian in origin. The Army’s preference is for lighter-weight guns that can be easily deployed in high-altitude regions, similar to the older Bofors guns.
This procurement process aligns with the Indian Army’s plan for Mediumisation, emphasizing the utilization of indigenous artillery. It is anticipated to be completed by the year 2042.