Prelims Bits
Context:
The Indian Army is set to induct its first regiment of the indigenously developed ATAGS, a significant advancement in India’s artillery modernization efforts after successful performance trials.
What is ATAGS?
The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) is a 155mm/52 calibre long-range towed artillery gun, designed to deliver precision firepower on the battlefield.
- It is a key component of India’s strategy to replace obsolete artillery systems with modern, indigenously developed platforms.
Development and Collaboration:
- Developed under the Make in India initiative by:
- DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation)
- Tata Advanced Systems Ltd
- Bharat Forge Ltd
Objectives of ATAGS:
- To create a next-generation artillery system with:
- High mobility
- Rapid deployment capability
- Long-range and accurate firepower
- Enhanced battlefield adaptability
Key Features:
| Feature | Description |
| Firing Range | Up to 48 km |
| Deployment Time | Operational readiness in under 90 seconds |
| Firing Modes | Supports Burst, Intense, and Sustained modes |
| Automation | Fully electric drive replaces traditional hydraulics for better reliability |
| Ammunition Handling | Includes automatic loading and onboard crane |
| Precision & Coverage | Wider firing arc for broader destructive capability |
| Indigenization | Over 80% components sourced domestically |
Strategic Significance:
- Boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat: Reinforces India’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing.
- Enhances Combat Capability: Offers superior long-range, rapid-firing artillery support.
- Reduces Import Dependency: Minimizes reliance on foreign artillery systems.
- Supports Mobile Warfare: Enables “shoot and scoot” tactics, especially in its Mounted Gun System (MGS) variant.