The Indian Army is slated to considerably improve its artillery capabilities with the deployment of the first regiment of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), which is expected to be operational by February 2027. This is a significant milestone in the Army’s continuing artillery modernization program, which aims to replace older, lower caliber cannons with cutting-edge indigenous equipment.
ATAGS is a 155mm/52 calibre towed artillery gun designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in partnership with Bharat Forge Limited and TATA Advanced Systems Limited.
The system has a demonstrated range of more than 45 kilometres, with successful tests reaching 48 kilometres, and can be deployed for fire in 90 seconds. Its wide arc of fire and rapid deployment capability give the Army greater devastating power and operational flexibility.
In March 2025, the Ministry of Defence inked contracts worth approximately ₹6,900 crore for the procurement of 307 ATAGS weapons and 327 high-mobility 6×6 gun towing vehicles.
These contracts are the first big private sector acquisition of towed guns, providing a significant boost to the indigenous defense manufacturing ecosystem while also aligning with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) policy. The ATAGS will replace the Army’s existing 105mm and 130mm artillery pieces, considerably enhancing its long-range firepower and precise strike capability.
The ATAGS system is well-known for its excellent lethality, mobility, and dependability, making it ideal for a variety of operational environments.
It can fire indirectly, attacking targets deep within enemy territory, in all weather conditions, and at any time of day or night, using a variety of ammunition. Over 80% of the system’s components are indigenous, with ongoing efforts to localize the remaining subsystems, including the auto cannon alignment and positioning system, muzzle velocity radar, and specific battery types.
Building on the ATAGS platform, the DRDO’s Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) has created a Mounted Gun System (MGS) technological demonstrator. The MGS converts the ATAGS into an 8×8 cross-country wheeled vehicle with a “shoot and scoot” capability that enables fast firing and swift relocation to avoid enemy counter-battery fire.
This improves survivability and lethality on the battlefield. The MGS has sophisticated innovations in vehicle design, stabilization, armoured cabins, ammo management, and onboard electronics, and it can be deployed in 80 seconds.
The Army’s initial request is for 300 MGS units, with the overall need expected to rise to 700 as operational demands increase. Both ATAGS and MGS can operate in a variety of terrains, including deserts and mountains, and are intended for fast deployment alongside mechanised forces.
To boost range and precision, DRDO is developing sophisticated munitions like as ramjet shells and inertial guidance systems. These programs demonstrate India’s dedication to self-reliance in defense technology, as well as its desire to provide the Army with cutting-edge artillery equipment for future battles.
The induction of the first ATAGS regiment by February 2027 will equip the Indian Army with a modern, highly competent artillery platform, considerably increasing operational readiness and firepower while also strengthening the country’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities.
