On Independence Day, an indigenous howitzer named ATAGS joined the 21-gun salute at the Red Fort. This marks a significant moment for Indian defense technology. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Pune-based facility, Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), the ATAGS project began in 2013 to replace outdated guns in the Indian Army with a modern 155 mm artillery gun.
About ATAGS: An Indigenous Marvel
ATAGS is shorthand for the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System. It is a homegrown 155 mm x 52 calibre howitzer gun that promises to enhance India’s military firepower. The term ‘howitzers’ is a broad category of long-range artillery guns. DRDO launched the ATAGS project eight years ago with a twofold goal: replacing old guns in the Indian Army and fortifying the country’s indigenous defense capabilities.
Redefining Firepower: Features of ATAGS
The armament system of ATAGS incorporates the barrel, breech mechanism, muzzle brake, and recoil mechanism. These components work together to fire 155 mm calibre ammunition with longer range, greater accuracy, and precision. This upgrade provides significant firepower compared to older artillery systems.
One of the distinguishing features of ATAGS is its all-electric drive configuration. This design ensures reliable, maintenance-free operation over extended periods. It boasts advanced functionalities including high mobility, rapid deployability, auxiliary power mode, enhanced communication system, and automatic command and control system with the capability for night firing in direct fire mode.
In terms of compatibility, the specialized gun system is designed to work seamlessly with C4I (command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence) systems. This includes the Artillery Combat Command and Control System (ACCCS) known as ‘Shakti’. Such compatibility facilitates effective technical fire control, fire planning, deployment management, and operational logistics management for the Army.
Role in the Future: ATAGS and Dhanush
The inception and ongoing development of ATAGS by DRDO coincide with the creation of Howitzer Dhanush by Advanced Weapons and Equipment India, a former division of the Ordnance Factory Board. In 2019, both the Indian Army and the Ministry of Defence provided production clearance to manufacture 114 Dhanush artillery units.
Looking ahead, ATAGS and Dhanush are poised to replace older artillery systems successfully. The integration of these advanced weapons will undoubtedly mark a new era of technology-driven warfare and defense for India. This transition not only illustrates the growing capabilities of the Indian defense sector but also underscores the country’s commitment to self-reliance in critical areas like defense technology.