Given the recent India-Pakistan conflict and the success of its domestic weapons during Operation Sindoor, India has made notable advancements in indigenous defense technology.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has unveiled a new generation of advanced artillery munitions and systems in response to Pakistan’s deployment of SH-15 Howitzers supplied by China. This represents a significant advancement in India’s military prowess and independence.
The most recent innovation, according to a Janes report, is the creation and demonstration of a 155mm ramjet-powered artillery projectile intended for the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a 155mm/52 calibre gun that was co-developed by DRDO and Indian industry partners Bharat Forge Limited, Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited, and TATA Advanced Systems Limited.
By using missile-like propulsion, this new ramjet projectile significantly increases the range of conventional artillery shells. It can potentially reach targets up to 80 km away, which is far farther than the standard ATAGS shells’ current range of 45 km. The ramjet provides a technological advantage over conventional artillery munitions by absorbing atmospheric oxygen while in flight, maintaining combustion and increasing velocity and range.
Apart from the ramjet projectile, DRDO has created four different kinds of next-generation 155mm artillery ammunition using domestic technology in collaboration with private sector partners such as Reliance Infrastructure. These changes are a component of the larger ‘Make in India’ and Atmanirbhar Bharat programs, which seek to strengthen India’s defense exports and lessen reliance on imports.
With a 25-liter chamber volume (more than many of its international counterparts) and the ability to fire six rounds in 30 seconds, the ATAGS system is a cutting-edge artillery platform that will be widely incorporated into the Indian Army. By March 2025, 307 units are anticipated to be acquired. It is anticipated that the new gun and ammunition systems will reduce import expenses by billions of dollars and establish India as a significant exporter of cutting-edge artillery technology.
Samir V. Kamat, the chairman of DRDO, has stated his belief that a surge in defense exports will be fueled by the war-tested nature of domestic equipment, particularly in the wake of Operation Sindoor. He also mentioned the ambitious fifth-generation stealth fighter jet project (AMCA), which was recently approved by the government. Production is expected to begin in 2035, with the first prototype flight scheduled for 2029.
India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has garnered international attention in tandem with artillery advancements, especially after its successful deployment against Chinese and Pakistani air defenses during recent conflicts.
With the development of lighter, next-generation versions (BrahMos-NG) for wider platform compatibility and export, as well as integration for India’s domestic Tejas fighter jets, the BrahMos is being further improved. These improvements help India become a major defense exporter and strengthen its deterrence posture.
The most recent indigenous weapon developments in India, particularly the sophisticated ATAGS system and the 155mm ramjet artillery projectile, mark a significant advancement in the nation’s defense capabilities. These developments complement national efforts for independence and technological leadership in defense while also advancing India’s strategic autonomy and export potential in addition to countering China’s and Pakistan’s growing threats.
