Col Ashwani Sharma (retd), Editor

‘ATAGS an imperative for the success of ‘Make in India’ is the heading of a feature article carried in the Jan-Feb 2020 issue of our magazine. This milestone represents a source of immense pride for the nation and its ecosystem, as a truly Indian initiative reaches its fruition. The project strengthens the country’s military capabilities and marks the beginning of a new era—one where indigenous platforms play a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s borders.

The ATAGS has recently been in the spotlight for all the right reasons. Designed, developed, and manufactured in India, this long-range artillery gun proudly showcases its Indian origins alongside its unmatched features. Its performance has drawn global attention, even in a fiercely competitive market. Currently, contract negotiations are underway at the Ministry of Defence (MoD) with Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) for the acquisition of 307 units of this state-of-the-art artillery system, equipped with a unique 25-liter chamber. This achievement marks a moment of pride for the DRDO, the Indian defence industry, and the nation.

Having observed this project closely since its inception, it brings me immense satisfaction to witness its fruition despite numerous challenges, some of which were significant enough to derail the project entirely. However, the determination of key individuals—including industrialists, scientists, technocrats, and supporters—proved critical. Together, they overcame obstacles through innovation, improvisation, and indigenisation. As a result, the ATAGS stands tall—both literally and figuratively—as a shining example of India’s growing military ecosystem. Its successful induction into the Indian Army will not only enhance the nation’s defence capabilities but also inspire future indigenous projects as India strives toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Early Days

The ATAGS project began in 2013 under the DRDO as part of the “Make in India” initiative, aimed at developing a 155mm/52-caliber towed artillery system. DRDO partnered with Bharat Forge and TASL to develop prototypes and produce the system. By 2015, the design and initial development phases were completed, and the first prototypes were built at Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced System’s facilities under guidance from DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE).

In 2017, the first prototype of the ATAGS was unveiled at the Republic Day parade in Delhi, followed by Defexpo 2018 at Chennai.  After that it successfully underwent initial mobility and basic firing trials. A year later, during firing trials in Pokhran, Rajasthan, the ATAGS set a world record, achieving a range of 48.07 kilometres using Extended Range Full Bore Base Bleed(ERFB-BB) ammunition. The DRDO immediately recognised it as a game-changer for India’s artillery modernisation. Subsequent trials were conducted across various terrains and climatic conditions, including high-altitude regions, with feedback from the Indian Army leading to further design refinements. By 2019, user-assisted trials focused on testing the system’s mobility, durability, and sustained firing capabilities under extreme conditions.

 

Advanced Trials and Setbacks (2020-2021)

In September 2020, a prototype malfunctioned during user trials, prompting an investigation and subsequent design modifications. Despite the setback, the ATAGS remained a strong contender for induction into the Indian Army. Trials resumed with improved performance in diverse environments, including high-altitude and desert regions. Momentum for bulk orders increased during this period.

 

Recent Milestones and Future Outlook

In 2017, the ATAGS was showcased during the Republic Day Parade, symbolising India’s indigenous artillery capabilities. The system successfully cleared summer and winter trials, demonstrating its robustness and readiness for the Indian Army’s needs. By 2023, the Ministry of Defence approved field evaluation trials, marking a critical step toward full induction. After clearing final mobility and firing tests with high accuracy, the acquisition process for 307 units officially began in the same year with issue of a formal RFP, and is now nearing completion with final contract negotiations underway.

Once inducted, mass production will commence under Bharat Forge and TASL, with the support of other Indian defence suppliers. The ATAGS also presents significant export opportunities, aligning with India’s push for defence exports under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.

 

Unmatched Capabilities

The ATAGS is a 155mm, 52-calibre howitzer that surpasses most of its contemporaries in range, precision, and performance. With a range exceeding 48 kilometres with charge 7 ammunition, it outstrips many NATO-standard artillery systems. This exceptional range is complemented by its ability to fire five rounds per minute in burst mode, owing to its efficient automatic ammunition handling system.

The gun is towed by a 6×6 platform, providing excellent mobility across varied terrains. Its all-electric drive system ensures higher reliability and reduces wear and tear compared to traditional hydraulic systems. The ATAGS is also designed to operate in extreme temperatures, making it suitable for diverse Indian terrains, from the icy heights of Ladakh to the scorching deserts of Rajasthan.

48 kms range offers a unique advantage- though a towed Gun, counter fire cannot reach it since adversaries cannot fire more than 40 kms with standard ammunition. Another first in class feature of ATAGS is sustained firing of 60 rounds in 60 minutes making the gun capable of bringing down devastating sustained fire.

Some Myths  

• Excessive Weight. There is a myth that ATAGS weighing 19 Tons cannot cross bridges etc – in fact the weight of ATAGS is distributed on 3 pairs of wheels, thus resulting in even weight distribution. The point load is less than many other Guns which may be lighter overall, making it easy to cross bridges etc.

Weight of 19 Tons also serves a good purpose for the class of Gun ATAGS belongs to; it provide excellent stability during firing with higher accuracy. Stability is a must in between firings in burst/intense mode.

• Another myth is that ATAGS is not easy to manoeuvre and cannot negotiate sharp turns – with 2 pairs of main wheels, which are skid steered and a pair of steered Castor wheels(castor wheels are automatically steered as per the main wheels applying Ackerman’s rule) the manoeuvrability of ATAGS is superior.

 

Indigenous Development and Strategic Importance

The ATAGS project underscores India’s push for self-reliance under the Make in India initiative. With over 70% indigenous components, the gun reflects the growing capabilities of India’s defence industrial base. The involvement of private sector players like Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems highlights the successful integration of public-private partnerships in defence projects.

Strategically, the ATAGS addresses a critical gap in India’s artillery modernization program, which has long suffered from delays and import dependence. The introduction of this indigenous gun system aligns with India’s broader objectives of reducing reliance on foreign systems and achieving technological self-sufficiency.

Globally, the ATAGS holds significant export potential. Many nations in Asia, Africa, and South America are seeking cost-effective and high-performance artillery solutions, and the ATAGS fits the bill. Its competitive pricing, coupled with India’s expanding defence diplomacy, could position it as a leading choice in the international market. ATAGS guns are already protecting the borders of Armenia which is reportedly seeking a repeat order.

Conclusion

The ATAGS is more than just an advanced artillery system—it symbolizes India’s aspirations for defence self-reliance and global competitiveness. Its successful induction will significantly boost the Indian Army’s capabilities while establishing India as a credible player in the global defence market. In an era of rapid technological evolution in warfare, the ATAGS is a testament to India’s ability to innovate and execute at scale.

Editor’s Note. I wish to place on record a few words of appreciation for persanages who stood tall during the entire developmental phase:  Projects like ATAGS represent the dawn of a new era for India’s defence ecosystem. The dedication and effort of many visionaries, including DRDO scientists like Dr Christopher Chairman DRDO, Dr Gade, the scientist in charge, Defence Industy leaders like Baba Kalyani (CMD, Bharat Forge) and Sukaran Singh (CEO & MD, TASL), for their unstinted support,  technocrats like Rajinder Bhatia, Bharat Forge, Mr Muralidharan,CTO TASL, Neelesh Tungar, Bharat Forge(former TASL) have been instrumental in its success. Leaders such as Lt. Gen. JP Singh, with his relentless drive, ensured that gaps were filled, and challenges were addressed. The contributions of these stalwarts extend far beyond ATAGS, paving the way for a self-reliant defence industry. Their work is not just a milestone but the foundation for an ambitious future.

Jai Hind!