Image credit: @DRDO_India
Kalyani Strategic Systems Elevates ATAGS Indigenous Content to Over 80%
In a significant move towards strengthening India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing, Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge Ltd., has announced that the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) it manufactures will now feature more than 80% indigenous content. This strategic shift reflects the company’s commitment to reducing dependency on foreign components and boosting domestic capabilities in advanced weapon systems.
The ATAGS is a 155mm/52 caliber towed artillery gun developed in partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). While the gun system initially comprised about 60% indigenous components, recent advancements and internal investments by KSSL have significantly elevated the local content. “We have already increased the indigenous content of ATAGS to around 70 percent. As we move into full-scale production, we expect this number to rise beyond 80 percent,” a senior official from the company stated.
ATAGS: Indigenous Firepower for Modern Warfare
ATAGS has emerged as a key component of India’s artillery modernization drive. With the ability to fire at extended ranges of up to 48 kilometers and equipped with automated firing systems and advanced mobility features, it is poised to replace aging artillery pieces in the Indian Army’s inventory. Its development and upcoming large-scale production mark a milestone in India’s push for indigenously designed and manufactured military hardware.
Scaling Production for Domestic and Global Needs
KSSL is scaling up its production at its Pune-based facility to meet growing demands. The plant is capable of manufacturing over 350 guns annually, aiming to deliver almost one unit each day. The ramp-up not only targets Indian Army requirements but also enhances the company’s position in global defense exports. In 2024, KSSL successfully exported 100 artillery guns, including Bharat-52 and ATAGS units, to countries such as Armenia, showcasing the reliability and competitiveness of Indian-made weapon systems.
Empowering Self-Reliant Defense Manufacturing
By achieving more than 80% indigenization in ATAGS, KSSL is actively contributing to the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives. Critical components such as barrels, breech mechanisms, recoil systems, and electronic sub-systems are being manufactured locally, reducing logistical dependencies and ensuring long-term strategic security. The company is also investing in its supply chain and R&D to further enhance the quality and performance of its defense products.
This achievement not only elevates India’s status as a defense producer but also sends a strong signal of the country’s growing technological prowess and manufacturing strength in the global arena.
