The Indian Army is on the brink of a significant advancement in its artillery modernization with the indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) soon to have an increased range exceeding 80 km. This enhancement is made possible by the Defense Research and Development Organization’s (DRDO) innovative smart ammunition initiative, which seeks to enhance battlefield capabilities to align with international norms.
What Is ATAGS?
The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System, a collaborative endeavor between DRDO’s ARDE, Tata Advanced Systems, and Bharat Forge, is a cutting-edge homegrown initiative. This 155mm, 52-calibre towed artillery gun aims to modernize existing weaponry by aligning with leading global howitzers.
Key features include:
- Calibre: 155 mm / 52 calibre
- Maximum existing range: ~48 km with extended range ammunition
- Weight: ~18 tonnes
- Unique capability: First in the world to achieve burst firing of 5 successive rounds in 60 seconds during trials
- Automation: Fully automated with electric drives, advanced communication, and digital control systems
DRDO’s Smart Ammunition Breakthrough
The DRDO has accelerated its smart ammunition programme to integrate advanced propellants, precision guidance kits, and ramjet-assisted shells to extend artillery ranges beyond current limits.
Key Elements Of Smart Ammunition Plan:
- Extended Range Full Bore-BB (ERFB-BB) Shells: These achieve greater distances by optimising aerodynamics and base bleed technology to reduce drag.
- Ramjet Artillery Shells: Ramjet propulsion is expected to extend the range to over 80 km, potentially up to 100 km. It involves integrating miniature ramjets within the projectile for sustained velocity over long distances.
- Precision Guidance Kits: Similar to US Excalibur rounds, these kits convert conventional shells into precision-guided munitions (PGMs), enhancing accuracy and minimising collateral damage.
- Compatibility Integration: The ammunition is being developed to remain compatible with both ATAGS and other existing 155 mm platforms.
Why Is This Upgrade Important?
India’s artillery has faced criticism for outdated systems with limited range. China’s long-range PCL-181 and Russia’s Coalition-SV howitzers have enhanced battlefield dominance through extended reach. The ATAGS upgrade ensures:
- Enhanced Firepower: Ability to engage targets deeper inside enemy territory.
- Deterrence: Strengthening India’s border artillery against PLA and Pakistan.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Indigenous smart ammunition reduces dependency on imports.
ATAGS Trials And Induction Timeline
| Milestone | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Development Initiation | 2013 |
| First Firing Trials | 2016 |
| Performance Benchmarking | 2017-2021 |
| User Trials | 2022-2024 |
| Expected Induction | 2025 onwards (initial batches under order for ~150 units) |
Recent Achievements In ATAGS Programme
- Republic Day 2023: ATAGS was part of the ceremonial gun salute, replacing the British-era 25-pounder – marking its ceremonial induction.
- Highest Altitude Firing Trials: Successfully completed in Sikkim sector under extreme winter, proving high-altitude adaptability.
- Strategic Partnership: Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems collaborating with DRDO for rapid indigenisation and private sector production scale-up.
Strategic Implications For Indian Army
The extended range ATAGS with smart ammunition enhances India’s operational preparedness by:
- Supporting Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs): Quick, deep, and precise fire support for rapid mobilisation doctrines.
- Complementing Rocket Artillery: Bridging the gap between conventional tube artillery and rocket systems like Pinaka.
- Counter-Force And Counter-Battery Missions: Engaging enemy artillery and fortifications beyond conventional ranges.
Comparison With Global Counterparts
| Artillery System | Country | Calibre | Range (max) | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATAGS (upgraded) | India | 155mm/52 | 80+ km | Ramjet smart ammo planned |
| PzH 2000 | Germany | 155mm/52 | ~67 km (with Vulcano) | Heavy automation, rapid fire rate |
| CAESAR NG | France | 155mm/52 | ~70 km | Mounted on 6×6 truck for high mobility |
| Coalition-SV | Russia | 152mm | ~70 km | Dual auto-loader for shells and charges |
| PCL-181 | China | 155mm/52 | ~72 km | Mounted on 8×8 truck for rapid deployment |
Challenges Ahead
- Cost Control: Ramjet shells and PGMs are significantly costlier than conventional rounds.
- Production Scalability: Rapid scale-up is required to replace ageing FH-77B and M-46 gun systems across artillery regiments.
- User Adaptation: Training to operate smart munitions and integrating with existing fire control networks like AFNET.
Industry Impact
The ATAGS smart ammunition programme is expected to generate significant defence manufacturing business for private sector firms, boosting the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Companies involved in propellant systems, precision kits, and advanced metallurgy are likely to benefit.
Expert Commentary
Lt. Gen. PR Shankar (Retd), former Director General of Artillery, noted:
“Ramjet artillery shells are a gamechanger. They will allow us to target enemy HQs, logistics nodes, and air defence assets from safe stand-off distances, providing tactical and operational depth to the Army’s strike corps.”
Future Outlook
DRDO aims to begin user trials of ramjet shells within two years. If successful, India will join an elite group developing next-generation artillery munitions alongside the US, China, and Russia.
Key upcoming milestones include:
- Field trials of ramjet projectiles in 2025
- Integration with indigenous fire control systems for precision targeting
- Export potential under India’s defence diplomacy outreach to Southeast Asia and Africa
Final Word
With ATAGS evolving into a truly world-class artillery platform backed by DRDO’s smart ammunition roadmap, India’s firepower will leap into the next generation. It will empower the Army to deliver precise, extended-range, and effective strikes, bolstering national security and indigenous defense technology capabilities.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, based on official updates, defence industry reports, and strategic research insights. Readers are advised to follow Ministry of Defence releases for final operational deployment and specifications.
