The Author is Former Director General of Information Systems and A Special Forces Veteran, Indian Army

The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a towed 155mm/52-calibre howitzer project, started by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 2013, is being developed for the Indian Army by Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL) and Tata Advanced systems (TASL). Bharat Forge (part of Kalyani Group) and TASL are the development and manufacturing partners for the project.

Trials for the ATAGs began in 2013. In April-May 2022, the ATAGS successfully completed a week-long validation trial in Pokhran Field Firing Range (PFFR), paving way for induction into the Army. The Armenian Ground Forces ordered six ATAGS from KSSL, which were delivered to Armenia by the end of 2023. In mid-2024, Armenia conducted several successful tests of ATAGS at different locations and deployed them. As of October 2024, indicated intent to purchase additional 84 units after successful trials at different locations.

Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL) is now developing a tracked self-propelled howitzer (SPH) based on the ATAGS platform.

On March 26, 2025, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts with Bharat Forge Limited and TASL for the procurement of 155mm/52 Calibre ATAGS and High Mobility Vehicle 6x6 Gun Towing Vehicles respectively at a total cost of about ₹6,900 crore. The ATAGS will replace the vintage and smaller calibre guns and enhance the artillery capabilities of the Indian Army. The timeline for delivery of 307 ATAGS is expected to be five years.

The ATAGS boasts an impressive range of 48 kilometres with base bleed ammunition, significantly exceeding the performance of most contemporary artillery systems globally. The system features advanced automation capabilities, including a fully electric drive system that ensures maintenance-free and reliable operations over extended periods. With a firing rate of 5-6 rounds per minute and the ability to achieve Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) firing, the ATAGS provides exceptional battlefield effectiveness. The system's sophisticated features include autonomous operation capabilities, integration with the Artillery Combat Command and Control System (ACCCS-Shakti), and compatibility with NavIC-guided smart ammunition.

KSSL has established world-class manufacturing facilities to support its artillery production requirements. The company's new 3,00,000 square feet defence manufacturing plant in Jejuri, near Pune, represents a significant investment in advanced manufacturing capabilities. This facility features flexible multi-model layouts and integrated testing capabilities, enabling the production of various artillery systems. The company has already achieved significant export success, delivering 100 artillery guns to various countries in 2024, including 18 ATAGS systems to European nations. The Indian Army is expected to have its first ATAGS regiment ready by February 2027. This regiment will be equipped with the long-range ATAGS artillery guns. The first gun system is currently undergoing mandatory first of product model tests, with the first regiment of 18 ATAGS expected to be inducted within a year after the completion of these tests.

Tracked SPHs provide superior all-terrain mobility, enhanced crew protection, and the ability to keep pace with mechanised forces during rapid advances.

According to news reports of July 11, 2025, KSSL is now developing a tracked self-propelled howitzer (SPH) based on the ATAGS platform. The programme leverages proven technology from the successful ATAGS program while addressing the Indian Army's requirements for mobile artillery systems capable of operating in diverse operational environments. This move represents a significant advancement in India's defence manufacturing capabilities and positions KSSL as a key player in the global artillery market while strengthening India's pursuit of self-reliance in defence production. KSSL's decision to develop a tracked SPH based on the ATAGS platform is driven by several strategic considerations. The Indian Army's Field Artillery Rationalisation Plan (FARP), conceived in 1999, envisages the acquisition of approximately 2,800 155mm artillery guns by 2027, including a significant number of self-propelled systems. This massive modernisation program presents substantial opportunities for domestic manufacturers who can deliver world-class systems that meet the Army's stringent requirements.

The company's experience with the truck-mounted Multi-terrain Artillery Gun (MArG) system has provided valuable insights into mobile artillery development. The MArG, unveiled at international defence exhibitions, demonstrates KSSL's capability to successfully adapt towed artillery systems to mobile platforms while maintaining their operational effectiveness. This experience forms a crucial foundation for developing tracked Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) that can offer superior mobility and survivability compared to towed systems.

The system would incorporate the ATAGS's advanced fire control systems, including automatic gun alignment and positioning systems (AGAPS), muzzle velocity radar, and ballistic computers that enable precise targeting and rapid engagement. The all-electric drive system would ensure reliable operation in diverse environmental conditions while minimising maintenance requirements. Key technical features would include rapid deployment capabilities, with the ability to transition from travelling to firing configuration in approximately 85 seconds, similar to the MGS system. The tracked platform would provide superior mobility across challenging terrains, enabling the system to operate effectively in mountainous regions, desert environments, and urban areas where wheeled systems might face limitations.

Modern era wars, as demonstrated in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, have highlighted the critical importance of mobile artillery systems capable of "shoot and scoot" operations.

Modern era wars, as demonstrated in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, have highlighted the critical importance of mobile artillery systems capable of "shoot and scoot" operations. Tracked SPHs provide superior all-terrain mobility, enhanced crew protection, and the ability to keep pace with mechanised forces during rapid advances. These capabilities are essential for the Indian Army's operational requirements across diverse terrains, from the high-altitude regions of Ladakh to the desert environments of Rajasthan. The development of a tracked SPH based on the ATAGS platform would likely follow a phased approach. Initial phases would focus on adapting the ATAGS gun system to a tracked chassis, followed by integration of mobility systems, fire control systems, and protection measures. Prototype development and testing would require approximately 18-24 months, followed by extensive field trials and validation.