Indian Army to Commence Trials for Mounted Artillery Gun Systems: DRDO-Kalyani, Tata, and AWEIL Compete
The Indian Army is preparing to initiate trials for its much-awaited Mounted Gun Systems (MGS), setting the stage for a competitive showcase from India’s defense industry leaders. With a requirement for around 300 MGS units, three prominent entities—DRDO-Kalyani, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), and Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL)—are in close contention, each offering advanced artillery solutions designed for modern warfare.
Key Contenders and Their Mounted Gun Systems
DRDO-Kalyani Group CollaborationSystem Specifications: DRDO, in partnership with Kalyani Group, has developed a 155mm/52 calibre Mounted Artillery Gun System (MGS) currently undergoing company trials.Platform and Features: This MGS is mounted on a Tatra 8×8 chassis designed by BEML, ensuring high mobility suitable for diverse terrain conditions.Advanced Capabilities: Equipped with a fully automated loading mechanism and sophisticated targeting systems, the DRDO-Kalyani MGS provides enhanced precision, rapid deployment, and robust firepower, making it a strong contender in the Army’s modernization effort.Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL)System Based on Proven Platform: TASL’s entry, the Truck-Mounted Howitzer (TMH), derives from its successful Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), which is already cleared by the Indian Army.Adaptation and Advantages: Utilizing the same 155mm/52 calibre gun as ATAGS, the TMH adapts it for mounted configurations. The truck-mounted system, built on a TASL-developed truck powered by a Cummins engine, aims for rapid mobility and operational flexibility.Development Timeline: Although still in development, TASL expects to finalize its prototype by early 2025. Despite its later entry, TASL’s TMH benefits from the ATAGS platform’s established reliability.Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL)Dhanush Mounted System: AWEIL brings its truck-mounted Dhanush 155mm/52 calibre artillery system to the competition, utilizing a Tatra chassis for added durability and proven performance.Proven Technology: The Dhanush system, an upgraded version of the Bofors FH-77, incorporates modern advancements for improved range, precision, and mobility. Having completed its mobility and firing trials, AWEIL’s MGS is ready for the Army’s upcoming evaluation.
Importance of Mounted Gun Systems for the Indian Army
The Indian Army’s requirement for advanced mounted artillery systems stems from the need for:
Enhanced Mobility: Quick repositioning capabilities in challenging terrains to support tactical advancements.Increased Firepower: Modernized artillery for higher range and precision in warfare scenarios.Interoperability: Systems that can be easily integrated across platforms to streamline logistics and reduce training requirements.
Key Advantages of Each System
In this competitive race, each system brings unique strengths:
DRDO-Kalyani MGS: Known for its integration of a reliable Tatra chassis and automated loading mechanisms, which provide consistent performance across terrains.Tata TMH: Benefits from the proven ATAGS platform, potentially reducing additional testing requirements and easing the Army’s transition process.AWEIL Dhanush: Offers a direct upgrade from the trusted Bofors system, with existing trial completions ensuring readiness for immediate evaluation.
Important Considerations for the Army’s MGS Selection
The Indian Army will assess each contender based on specific factors to determine which system aligns best with its operational needs. Key considerations include:
Mobility and Deployment: Ability to operate smoothly across diverse terrains and reach strategic positions quickly.Firepower and Precision: Assessment of range, targeting accuracy, and firing speed to ensure responsiveness in combat scenarios.Operational Efficiency: Evaluation of ease of operation, maintenance requirements, and adaptability to existing infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
As the Indian Army embarks on trials for its Mounted Gun Systems, each of the three contenders—DRDO-Kalyani, TASL, and AWEIL—brings forth innovative artillery platforms tailored for the needs of modern warfare. While DRDO-Kalyani and AWEIL’s systems have already proven their performance in trials, TASL’s TMH could leverage the ATAGS platform’s existing Army clearance to gain a competitive edge. The upcoming trials will be a pivotal step in selecting a robust, mobile, and precise mounted artillery system to meet the Army’s evolving requirements in challenging operational environments.