CCS Approves ₹7,000 Crore Indigenous ATAGS Artillery Gun Acquisition

New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the acquisition of the indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) worth nearly ₹7,000 crore, marking a major step towards India’s self-reliance in the defence sector, official sources confirmed.

ATAGS, the first 155 mm artillery gun designed, developed, and manufactured entirely in India, is set to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces with its advanced technology and superior firepower. Featuring a 52-calibre barrel, the system boasts an extended firing range of up to 40 km, providing greater lethality, increased explosive payloads, and automated deployment for faster target engagement and reduced crew fatigue.

The induction of ATAGS will modernize the Indian Army’s artillery, replacing outdated 105 mm and 130 mm guns, and strengthening India’s defences along its western and northern borders. The gun’s superior range and precision make it a game-changer in bolstering the country’s firepower.

A flagship achievement under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, ATAGS was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Indian private industry partners. Notably, over 65% of its components are sourced domestically, including the barrel, muzzle brake, breech mechanism, firing and recoil system, and ammunition handling mechanism. This reduces dependence on foreign imports while fostering a robust domestic defence industry.

Furthermore, ATAGS minimizes reliance on foreign technology with key subsystems such as the navigation system, muzzle velocity radar, and sensors being developed indigenously. This ensures long-term product support, a reliable supply chain for spares, and seamless life-cycle maintenance.

The manufacturing of ATAGS is expected to create around 20 lakh man-days of employment across various industries. In addition, this development strengthens India’s position in the global defence export market, paving the way for future indigenous defence exports.