Bharat Forge Wins Indian Army Contract for ATAGS Howitzers
In a major development, Bharat Forge Limited, based in Pune, has been selected as the lowest bidder for the Indian Army’s contract to purchase 307 ATAGS howitzers. This contract, valued at over Rs 6,000 crore, will see Bharat Forge manufacturing 60% of the guns, while Tata Advanced Systems Limited, the second lowest bidder, will produce the remaining 40%.
The decision came after the commercial bids from both companies were opened, with Bharat Forge emerging as the primary supplier. This contract marks a significant achievement for the indigenous weapon systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The Indian Army conducted trials using Tata vehicles for towing the howitzers in field areas before the bids were opened. This order represents the first domestic sale of these guns, which have already been exported to countries like Armenia. Manufacturers are now eyeing further exports, particularly to African nations.
The order for the 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) is expected to be finalized within the current financial year, with deployment planned along the borders with China and Pakistan. The 155 mm, 52 calibre howitzer was developed by DRDO in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd and Bharat Forge Ltd.
The Ministry of Defence received a proposal from the Indian Army to acquire these systems, following successful trials at the Pokhran Field Firing Range from April 26 to May 2, 2023. The ATAGS project is part of the Indian Army’s artillery modernization program, with the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune serving as the lead laboratory for its design and development.
Doubts Revealed
Bharat Forge -: Bharat Forge is a big company in India that makes parts for vehicles and machines. They are known for making strong metal parts.
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the part of India’s military that fights on land. They protect the country from enemies and help during emergencies.
ATAGS Howitzers -: ATAGS stands for Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System. It’s a big gun used by the army to shoot targets far away.
Rs 6,000 crore -: Rs 6,000 crore is a very large amount of money in Indian currency, the Rupee. It is equal to 60 billion Rupees.
Tata Advanced Systems Limited -: Tata Advanced Systems Limited is a company in India that makes advanced technology products, especially for defense and aerospace.
DRDO -: DRDO stands for Defence Research and Development Organisation. It’s an Indian government agency that develops technology for the military.
Indigenous -: Indigenous means something that is made or developed within the country, using local resources and knowledge.
Pokhran Field Firing Range -: Pokhran Field Firing Range is a place in India where the army tests weapons to make sure they work well.
