India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has inked significant contracts worth $831 million (₹6,900 crore) to acquire advanced indigenous artillery systems, marking a historic milestone in the modernization of the Indian Army. These contracts, signed on March 26, 2025, include the procurement of the 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) from Bharat Forge Limited and High Mobility Vehicle 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles from Tata Advanced System Limited. The agreements were formalized in a ceremony held in New Delhi’s South Block, in the presence of the Defence Secretary.
This initiative forms part of the larger push toward self-reliance in defense under the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. With this deal, the total capital procurement contracts signed by the Ministry of Defence during the financial year 2024–25 have reached a staggering $16.9 billion (₹1.40 lakh crore). This landmark development represents an unprecedented commitment to bolstering national defense capabilities.
The ATAGS acquisition is a pivotal step forward for India’s Artillery Regiments, as the advanced 155mm/52 Calibre systems are set to replace aging, smaller-caliber guns currently in use. Known for their exceptional lethality and precision, the ATAGS are equipped to perform long-range strikes with high accuracy, significantly enhancing the Army’s firepower. The modernization initiative is expected to substantially bolster the operational readiness and combat efficacy of the Indian Army.
During the ceremony, the Defence Secretary honored the Project Director of ATAGS from the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Armament Research and Development Establishment in Pune. The accolade recognized the individual’s instrumental role in the successful realization of the project, underscoring the contributions of scientific and engineering talent in advancing India’s defense capabilities.
The ATAGS procurement represents a landmark achievement, as it is the Indian Army’s first major acquisition of towed artillery systems from private-sector manufacturers. This collaboration highlights the vital role of private enterprise in the defense sector, as well as its potential to invigorate the domestic defense production ecosystem. The initiative is expected to drive employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth, furthering the objectives of the Make-in-India program.
Beyond its economic impact, this project solidifies India’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign imports for critical defense equipment. By leveraging indigenous resources and expertise, the Ministry of Defence aims to build a robust and self-sufficient defense industry capable of meeting the nation’s strategic requirements.
These developments come at a crucial juncture, as India seeks to enhance its defense capabilities amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics. The signing of these contracts demonstrates the government’s unwavering focus on fortifying the country’s military preparedness while fostering an ecosystem of innovation and industrial collaboration in the defense sector.
This announcement marks yet another significant step in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in defense manufacturing and underscores the strategic importance of self-reliance in ensuring national security.
