New Delhi: In a significant move toward modernizing its defense capabilities, the Indian Army has issued a tender worth approximately Rs 6,500 crore for the acquisition of 400 new howitzer guns. The tender, released on Friday, specifies that the guns will be procured under the Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured (IDDM) category from Indian firms.
A Major Boost for Domestic Defense Firms
This procurement is set to provide a substantial boost to the Indian defense sector, reinforcing the country’s commitment to enhancing its self-reliance in military equipment. According to top defense sources, this initiative will further strengthen domestic firms involved in the defense industry.
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Recent Additions to the Arsenal
In recent years, the Indian Army has expanded its artillery capabilities with several new howitzer systems, including the Dhanush, Sharang, Ultra Light Howitzer (ULH), and K-9 Vajra Self-Propelled Guns. The Dhanush guns represent an electronic upgrade of the Bofors guns, while the Sharang guns have been upgraded from a 130 mm to a 155 mm caliber. The Seven and Five regiments have also been equipped with Self-Propelled guns.
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Future Directions and Technological Advancements
The 155 mm caliber is set to become the standard for all future artillery guns. The focus is on integrating automated systems and assemblies, alongside the development of new technologies in sighting systems, ammunition manufacturing, metallurgy, and the networking of guns.
