India's Defence Ministry Signs Rs 6,900 Crore Deal for Advanced Artillery

The Ministry of Defence has finalized contracts worth Rs 6,900 crore with Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced System for artillery systems and transport vehicles. The deal marks India's first major private-sector gun procurement, enhancing the Army's capabilities and promoting the Make-in-India initiative in defence manufacturing.

The Ministry of Defence has secured significant contracts valued at approximately Rs 6,900 crore with Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited. These agreements are for acquiring 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and accompanying High Mobility Vehicle 6x6 Gun Towing Vehicles, according to an official press release.

The signing ceremony, held at South Block in New Delhi on March 26, 2025, was attended by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. To date, the Ministry has finalized capital procurement contracts worth Rs 1.40 lakh crore for the current fiscal year 2024-25. During the event, DRDO's Project Director for ATAGS was lauded for key contributions to the project.

This groundbreaking contract marks the first significant procurement of towed artillery from the private sector, signifying a major step in enhancing India's artillery capabilities. The ATAGS will replace older models, fortifying the Artillery Regiments, and promoting domestic manufacturing in alignment with the Aatmnanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India initiatives.

(With inputs from agencies.)