The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed contracts worth Rs 69 billion with Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited for the procurement of 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and High Mobility Vehicle 6x6 Gun Towing Vehicles, respectively. The contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block, New Delhi. 

With this, MoD’s total capital procurement contracts for FY 2024-25 have reached Rs 1.40 trillion. During the signing ceremony, the Project Director of ATAGS from DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment, Pune, was felicitated for his significant contribution to the project. 

The 155mm/52 Calibre ATAGS will replace older, smaller-calibre guns, strengthening the Indian Army’s artillery capabilities. The system, known for its precision and long-range firepower, will enhance the Army’s operational readiness and modernise Artillery Regiments. 

This procurement marks the Indian Army’s first major acquisition of towed guns from the private sector, providing a significant boost to India's domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem. As a flagship initiative under Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India, the project is expected to drive employment and economic growth while reinforcing India's self-reliance in defence production. 

(PIB)