PUNE, INDIA — Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge under the Kalyani Group, has embarked on a significant initiative to develop a 155mm/52-calibre tracked self-propelled howitzer (SPH). This ambitious project leverages the proven technology of the indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), marking a major stride in India's quest for self-reliance in defense manufacturing and its ambition to become a global player in the artillery market.
The ATAGS, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with KSSL and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), is already recognized as a pinnacle of indigenous defense manufacturing. This 155mm/52-calibre towed howitzer boasts an impressive range of 48 kilometers with base bleed ammunition, a high firing rate of 5-6 rounds per minute, and the ability to achieve Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI). Its sophisticated features, including autonomous operation capabilities, integration with the Artillery Combat Command and Control System (ACCCS-Shakti), and compatibility with NavIC-guided smart ammunition, make it an ideal foundation for a mobile platform.
KSSL's decision to develop a tracked SPH based on the ATAGS platform is driven by several strategic objectives. While towed artillery offers certain advantages, tracked SPHs provide superior mobility, protection for the crew, and rapid 'shoot-and-scoot' capabilities, essential for survivability in modern, dynamic battlefields. They can operate effectively across challenging terrains, including mountainous regions, deserts, and urban areas, where wheeled systems might face limitations. This aligns perfectly with the Indian Army's long-term Field Artillery Rationalisation Plan, which seeks to induct advanced and versatile gun systems across various platforms.
The proposed tracked SPH is expected to combine the formidable firepower of the ATAGS with the robust mobility and protection of a tracked chassis. It will likely feature the ATAGS's advanced fire control systems, including automatic gun alignment and positioning systems (AGAPS), muzzle velocity radar, and ballistic computers, ensuring precise targeting and rapid engagement. The adaptation process will focus on integrating the gun system with a suitable tracked vehicle platform, which could be an indigenous solution, possibly in collaboration with public sector undertakings like Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), or a partnership with a global firm, similar to Larsen & Toubro's collaboration with South Korea's Hanwha Defense for the K9 Vajra-T SPH.
Kalyani Strategic Systems has a strong track record in artillery manufacturing. The company has successfully produced the truck-mounted Multi-terrain Artillery Gun (MArG) and has already achieved significant export success, delivering 100 artillery guns to various countries in 2024, including ATAGS systems to European nations. This experience in delivering complex defense systems on schedule indicates its capability to manage large-scale development programs effectively.
The development of a tracked SPH based on the ATAGS platform represents a broader transformation in India's defense manufacturing landscape. It demonstrates the capability of private sector companies to develop world-class military systems, reducing dependence on imports and strengthening national security. While the development will likely follow a phased approach, focusing initially on adapting the ATAGS gun system to a tracked chassis, its successful realization would position India not only as self-reliant in artillery but also as a credible exporter of advanced, cost-effective, and high-performance tracked howitzer systems to the global market.
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