New Delhi, March 26, 2025 – In a significant step towards modernizing the Indian Army’s artillery capabilities and bolstering indigenous defence manufacturing, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts worth approximately Rs 6,900 crore on Tuesday. The agreements, inked with Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited, cover the procurement of the 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and High Mobility Vehicle 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles, respectively. The signing ceremony took place at South Block, New Delhi, in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The contracts mark a milestone in the current Financial Year 2024-25, bringing the total value of capital procurement deals signed by the MoD to an impressive Rs 1.40 lakh crore. The ATAGS, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, in collaboration with private industry partners, is set to replace the Army’s aging and smaller-caliber artillery systems. This procurement is the Indian Army’s first major acquisition of towed guns from the private sector, underscoring a shift towards self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India initiatives.
The ATAGS, renowned for its exceptional lethality, range, and precision, is expected to significantly enhance the operational readiness of the Artillery Regiments. Capable of delivering long-range strikes, it will play a critical role in strengthening the Army’s firepower on the battlefield.
The High Mobility Vehicle 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles, procured from Tata Advanced Systems Limited, will complement the ATAGS by providing robust logistical support, ensuring swift deployment and maneuverability in diverse terrains. Together, these systems represent a leap forward in modernizing India’s artillery capabilities to meet contemporary security challenges.
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Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh hailed the contracts as a proud moment for India’s defence ecosystem. “This procurement not only enhances our military preparedness but also provides a significant boost to the indigenous gun manufacturing industry,” he said. “It is a testament to the success of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and economic growth.”
The ATAGS project, a flagship of India’s self-reliance drive, is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth. By involving private sector giants like Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems, the initiative strengthens the domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem, reducing reliance on imports and fostering technological expertise.
