Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS)

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News Summary:
  • During the firing trial at Pokhran ranges, ATAGS has covered the longest ever distance of 48 kms.
  • It has surpassed the maximum ranges of 35-40 kms fired by any artillery gun system in this category.
  • The record was achieved with special ammunition, “high explosive – base bleed” (HE – BB).
  • The next round of trials will take place in Sikkim in December.
ATAGS:
  • It is a 155 mm/52 calibre towed howitzer artillery gun.
Development of ATAGS:
  • The development of ATAGS was started in 2013 as a part of artillery modernisation programme for Indian Army.
  • It is being jointly developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the private sector.
  • The DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment has partnered with Kalyani Group, Tata Power and Ordnance Factory Board etc for the development of ATAGS.
Features of ATAGS:
  • It is configured with all electric drive to ensure maintenance free and reliable operation over a longer period of time.
  • It has a firing range of 40 Kms.
  • It has advanced features like high mobility, advanced communication system, automatic command and control system with night firing capability in direct fire mode etc.
  • It has a six round magazine instead of a standard three round magazine.
No new Inductions:
  • The Army has not inducted any new artillery gun since the Bofors in the 1980s.
  • After decades of failed attempts, it is gearing up to induct the Dhanush artillery gun (an indigenously upgraded variant of the Bofors gun).
  • In 2016, India has signed a contract with U.S for 145 M-777 Ultra-Light Howitzers.
Section : Defence & Security