80 Seconds, 48km: India's New Next-Gen Artillery Guns Can Reach Lahore From Amritsar
While similar foreign artillery systems cost Rs 35-40 crore, DRDO's ATAGS costs just Rs 15 crore. In development since 2012, it is now ready for induction into the Army
In a striking display of India's growing defence capabilities, the spotlight has turned to the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a powerful, indigenous weapon designed to deliver long-range precision firepower.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Indian industry, ATAGS represents a major leap in homegrown artillery technology and is expected to play a crucial role in modern battlefield operations.
The ATAGS is often referred to as the successor to the Bofors gun, which played a crucial role in India's victory during the Kargil war. The ATAGS is a 155 mm/52 calibre cannon. Manufactured by Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems Limited, the standout feature of this cannon is its long range and pinpoint accuracy. It follows a shoot-and-scoot strategy, quickly relocating after firing to avoid enemy retaliation.
Why Is It Special?
While several countries, including military superpowers like the United States and China, possess advanced artillery systems, what makes the ATAGS remarkable is its range. At 48 km, it is considered the most advanced towed artillery gun in the world in this category.
With such capability, it can, in theory, strike targets in Lahore from within Punjab's Amritsar district, as the two cities are just 50 km apart.
ATAGS has proven highly effective across diverse terrains, from the deserts of Rajasthan to the icy heights of Siachen. DRDO is now working on enhancing its range to 80–90 km by developing GPS-guided and ramjet-propelled shells. Once operational, this upgrade will significantly boost its strike capability, enabling it to hit deep inside enemy territory without ever crossing the border.
One of the most impressive features of the ATAGS is its rapid deployment. It can be ready to fire in just 80 seconds. In case of danger, it can reposition itself within 85 seconds. The gun is mounted on an 8×8 high-mobility truck capable of reaching speeds up to 90 km/h. ATAGS can fire 10 high-explosive shells in 2.5 minutes or five shells in just 60 seconds.
Remarkably, 85% of its components are indigenous. While a foreign artillery system of this class costs Rs 35-40 crore, the ATAGS comes at a much lower cost of Rs 15 crore. Developed by DRDO since 2012, the gun is now ready for induction into the Indian Army.
In March 2025, the Government of India approved a Rs 6,900 crore deal to procure 307 ATAGS units. The first regiment, comprising 18 guns, is expected to be delivered by February 2027.
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