Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
naraswami thank you. Most helpful and well explained.
Another question for you. I have read your posts WRT HAL in two other threads.
How has the build quality of HAL improved since the 80s or even 90s because I heard some really interesting stories?
Another question for you. I have read your posts WRT HAL in two other threads.
How has the build quality of HAL improved since the 80s or even 90s because I heard some really interesting stories?
Last edited by ks_sachin on 04 Aug 2022 10:43, edited 1 time in total.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Naraswami,
OFB, if it was an autonomous organization would not make it MODs problem. But until last year it was not an autonomous organization. Even today it's questionable if it is truly an autonomous organization.
IA and OFB are not at all comparable.
OFB, if it was an autonomous organization would not make it MODs problem. But until last year it was not an autonomous organization. Even today it's questionable if it is truly an autonomous organization.
IA and OFB are not at all comparable.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Responding to build quality @ HAl(hyd) ,HAL has introduced powder coating of avionics enclosures, instead of epoxy based black mat finish.. . This eliminates poor finish quality , handling scratches during various phases of environmental testing. multi layer pcbs are outsourced for better yield and quality. process metric have been implemented and monitored. SMD reflow soldering also outsourced, as they require lot of time expiry chemicals, solder pastes, fluxes, cleaning solvents etc.. machining of mechanical parts are also outsourced to lot of pvt players in and around HAL premises...quality audit are done and have AS9000-D certification...naraswami wrote:ks_sachin wrote:naraswami thank you. Most helpful and well explained.
Another question for you. I have read your posts WRT HAL in two other threads.
How has the build quality of HAL improved since the 80s or even 90s because I heard some really interesting stories?
2nd hand info is that its improved tremendously - but still in QC mode (vs QA). Havent visited a HAL shop floor in more than a decade !
But (again 2nd hand) perception is that Yield, process and execution efficiencies far below entitlement - this is what kills the A/C division. If it takes 2 times longer, and 3 times more cost and 3 tries to get it right, then you'll never win - production at HAL will still stay in MNREGA mode not in a viable MIC mode. (Before anyone's head explodes, numbers made up for effect... ; HAL has never publicly disclosed such measurements and benchmarking, and its negotation tactics with Dassault etc that they should be responsible for HAL's production is widely seen as a naked attempt to enlist help for both its efficiency and ToT-competence issues without paying for it commercially)
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Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Delhi Defence: This 75th Anniversary of #IndependenceDay , the indigenously developed 155mm #ATAGS will be used to fire the 21-Gun Salute at the Red Fort, while hoisting the National Flag
Traditionally, the ceremonial battery, 2281 FIELD REGIMENT of the Indian Army has used the 25 pounders.
https://t.co/2QwjeCFaPg
Traditionally, the ceremonial battery, 2281 FIELD REGIMENT of the Indian Army has used the 25 pounders.
https://t.co/2QwjeCFaPg
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Agree but this also reflects on the Governments, TOT done by Foreign Manufacturers and general state of poor economy within India. Plus strategically placed Lefist Ideology officers in Union a.k.a Kejriwal types in the Government.ks_sachin wrote:OFBs shoddy metallurgy resulted in barrel bursts in the T72 and men needlessly dying or becoming medical categories.
OFBs shoddy metallurgy resulted in barrel bursts in arty guns and men needlessly dying or becoming medical categories.
OFBs shoddy manufacturing resulted in an INSAS design that was ok becoming one which was despised and also perhaps leading to a loss of lives.
I hesitate to venture into stuff like parachutes etc.
DM boots were crap.
Clothing was so poor that everyone purchased uniform material and got it stitched in civvy street. In Mhow there is an entire row of tailors who have been making uniforms for officers for generations!.
Times have changed and the Forces brass has to change, thier lives depend on local manufacturer, otherwise they will never have the firepower to deter the enemy.
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Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
This is brilliant optics and sends the right message to all concerned!ashishvikas wrote:Delhi Defence: This 75th Anniversary of #IndependenceDay , the indigenously developed 155mm #ATAGS will be used to fire the 21-Gun Salute at the Red Fort, while hoisting the National Flag
Traditionally, the ceremonial battery, 2281 FIELD REGIMENT of the Indian Army has used the 25 pounders.
https://t.co/2QwjeCFaPg
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
I am reminded of Renk transmission failure during a much publicised test of Arjun.
With or without any failure, i am unable to see any impact of this largely symbolic action.
With or without any failure, i am unable to see any impact of this largely symbolic action.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/ramj ... 95643.html
The US is one step closer to becoming competitive in very long range arty.
The US is one step closer to becoming competitive in very long range arty.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Indigenously developed artillery gun to fire 21-gun salute on Independence Day
https://www.ajaishukla.com/2022/08/indi ... un-to.html
13 Aug 2022
https://www.ajaishukla.com/2022/08/indi ... un-to.html
13 Aug 2022
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Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Special Episode on Bharat Forge: Making Arms for India | 20 August, 2022
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
https://www.firstpost.com/india/watch-p ... 04021.html
Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Pinaka extended range rockets are produced by private sector firm
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
According to Defence Youtube channel, Indian Army has begun discussions with DRDO to make a new Pinaka MBRL with range of 250 Kms in a "mission mode" with trials to begin towards the end of 2024.
So not only are we late in the game but also targeting a smaller increment in the range when the PLA already has 400 + Kms range system operational as of today.
So not only are we late in the game but also targeting a smaller increment in the range when the PLA already has 400 + Kms range system operational as of today.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
I am more concerned about the Indian Army thinking that this is still Mahabharata. The a long ranged MLRS has to be countered by long ranged MLRS.
Why not deploy Prahar or Pragati for this application?
These are pre existing systems and only production orders are missing.
Second point of concern is the ability of the Indian army to develop shooting solution for targets that deep. What kind of recee assets exist that would permit engagement of relevant targets in the relevant timeline.
Why not deploy Prahar or Pragati for this application?
These are pre existing systems and only production orders are missing.
Second point of concern is the ability of the Indian army to develop shooting solution for targets that deep. What kind of recee assets exist that would permit engagement of relevant targets in the relevant timeline.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
The Prahaar/Pranash system already exists. As per wiki the Pranash variant was taken up for development in 2021 by DRDO and was to offer the same for user trials within 2 years. The Original Prahaar missile had a range of 150-170 Kms only. The diameter is 420 mm. For this sized missile the range should be higher. Now, with the breakthrough in new solid rocket propellant, probably NEPE based, the range of the Pinaka has been incrased and once can expect the Pranash to have range of around 250 Kms if not slightly more.
A mobile truck launcher will carry 6 of these. Should be very useful system when developed.
A mobile truck launcher will carry 6 of these. Should be very useful system when developed.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Army deploys ultra-light M-777 howitzers in forward locations along LAC in Arunachal Pradesh
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/ne ... 074189.cms
08 Sept 2022
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/ne ... 074189.cms
08 Sept 2022
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
I thought it was done last year it self. Nitin Gokhale had covered this. When he was covering the Indian preparedness in the eastern sector.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Pratyush wrote:I am more concerned about the Indian Army thinking that this is still Mahabharata. The a long ranged MLRS has to be countered by long ranged MLRS.
Why not deploy Prahar or Pragati for this application?
Prahar or Pragati are not area saturation weapons of the kind of MLRS. They do bring offensive power to a specific radius or provide counter fire power.
So the question not answered would be why the IA did not think of usefulness of such extended range rocket systems before. The PLA has been fielding the PCL-191 MLRS since 2019 , with a maximum range of 500 km ( ! )
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
A good article by Lt. Gen (Retd) PR Shankar.
https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/to ... 0c7cc47544
"Very importantly, Smart Artillery means good observation/spotting of fire. The ubiquitous drone(s) will obviously enhance battlefield transparency without which Artillery is blind. It calls for a high degree of sensor to shooter integration across the length and depth of the battlefield. Hence, intrinsic mating of holistic surveillance means (space, aerial and land based) with firepower is smart. Keeping them apart or divided is dumb. Such intimate mating including keeping some firepower at the beck and call of sensors needs enhanced jointness. Further, sensors need overlapping redundancy. Getting this mix right demands sound networking. If networking is not in place, solid and reliable communications will have to be configured.
PLA believes in preponderance of numbers in any operation. Further, PLA firepower, especially its Artillery, is heavy with large silhouettes. Overall, PLA forces will need lot of space. Conversely, for a given space, detectable targets will be numerous. Denying space through systematic interdiction will pay dividends. It will also fix the adversary to constrict his manoeuvre while enhancing your own. Observation posts/spotters lying doggo deep in PLA territory will be invaluable. Replenishing them with drones and enhancing their endurance will add to value. Track and kill operations, firepower ambushes and spoiling attacks will be telling. To that extent, the Ukrainian terrain during ‘Rasputitsa’ conditions and the Himalayan terrain are identical. PLA forces will have to lumber along limited roads and tracks. Catch them on the move. If that is difficult, catch their follow up and ammunition trains. They will all move at night. The fundamental message is that Smart Artillery means generating intelligence of the ‘battlefield space’ by AI based digital modelling and using it to squeeze the adversary. This is now feasible with universally available georeferencing and satellite technologies. "
https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/to ... 0c7cc47544
"Very importantly, Smart Artillery means good observation/spotting of fire. The ubiquitous drone(s) will obviously enhance battlefield transparency without which Artillery is blind. It calls for a high degree of sensor to shooter integration across the length and depth of the battlefield. Hence, intrinsic mating of holistic surveillance means (space, aerial and land based) with firepower is smart. Keeping them apart or divided is dumb. Such intimate mating including keeping some firepower at the beck and call of sensors needs enhanced jointness. Further, sensors need overlapping redundancy. Getting this mix right demands sound networking. If networking is not in place, solid and reliable communications will have to be configured.
PLA believes in preponderance of numbers in any operation. Further, PLA firepower, especially its Artillery, is heavy with large silhouettes. Overall, PLA forces will need lot of space. Conversely, for a given space, detectable targets will be numerous. Denying space through systematic interdiction will pay dividends. It will also fix the adversary to constrict his manoeuvre while enhancing your own. Observation posts/spotters lying doggo deep in PLA territory will be invaluable. Replenishing them with drones and enhancing their endurance will add to value. Track and kill operations, firepower ambushes and spoiling attacks will be telling. To that extent, the Ukrainian terrain during ‘Rasputitsa’ conditions and the Himalayan terrain are identical. PLA forces will have to lumber along limited roads and tracks. Catch them on the move. If that is difficult, catch their follow up and ammunition trains. They will all move at night. The fundamental message is that Smart Artillery means generating intelligence of the ‘battlefield space’ by AI based digital modelling and using it to squeeze the adversary. This is now feasible with universally available georeferencing and satellite technologies. "
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Just saw this post.kit wrote: Prahar or Pragati are not area saturation weapons of the kind of MLRS. They do bring offensive power to a specific radius or provide counter fire power.
So the question not answered would be why the IA did not think of usefulness of such extended range rocket systems before. The PLA has been fielding the PCL-191 MLRS since 2019 , with a maximum range of 500 km ( ! )
The main thrust of my argument is that any missile or system beyond a certain range has to be a precision system. It can no longer afford to be an area saturation weapon. Because the effects on the target cannot be assured at extended ranges by non precision systems.
At lower ranges the rockets are cheaper than any precision guidance package mounted on them. But as the ranges extend, the following issues make area saturation make economically and logistically unviable.
1) CEP increases to an extent that with un guided rockets you are lucky to be striking at the same PIN code. Let alone the general vicinity of the target.
2) the rockets become so large that very few can be launched by the available launchers. Increasing the logistics burden for unguided rockets.
3) a larger rocket because it's using larger amount of materials for fabrication is more expensive as a result. Which in turn increases the economic costs for manufacturing.
Therefore, a very long range MLRS system by necessity has to be a guided rocket.
This is the reason why I am so disappointed in the Indian army thought process in this matter. They had solutions for deep strike for years. But didn't think fit to procure those systems. Only after the PRC demonstrated that they have an MLRS system on 500 km range, does the Indian army think in terms of matching such a system.
It's almost as if, the PRC of going to send one officer with a megaphone to the front. He will issue a challenge that we are going to launch a 500 km range MLRS system. If you don't have such a system you have to surrender. The Indian army in turn will send one officer with a megaphone to answer a similar challenge.
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Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
We have to thank the Chinese for opening the eyes of Indian armed forces.Pratyush wrote: It's almost as if, the PRC of going to send one officer with a megaphone to the front. He will issue a challenge that we are going to launch a 500 km range MLRS system.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Question is how much effective are area saturation weapons with 500km range , in our Eastern and northern front ?
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
And the israelis cause they dont have an equivalent systemA Deshmukh wrote:We have to thank the Chinese for opening the eyes of Indian armed forces.Pratyush wrote: It's almost as if, the PRC of going to send one officer with a megaphone to the front. He will issue a challenge that we are going to launch a 500 km range MLRS system.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Depends on the area you want to target. If you read the former DG Arty's article in this thread then he alludes what is involved in a the Chinese ingress into Ladakh.shaun wrote:Question is how much effective are area saturation weapons with 500km range , in our Eastern and northern front ?
Any target that is chosen is then mated to the appropriate weapon depending on the strategic/tactical objective. In Ladakh area, saturation could mean denying the Chinese the wherewithal to mass forces close to the known channels of ingress into India. One reason that the IA has perhaps not considered this that important is that our posture has always been defensive and as long as we blunt all avenues of approach into our areas then we are happy.
Perhaps the Army is now signalling to the Chinese that we are prepared to ratchet up our response quite a bit. So lets go easy on the criticism of the IA leadership without knowing what their priorities have been.
Also this 500km range allows for the weapon to be based quite flexibly.
You could potentially hit targets deeper from deeper within our territory. Imagine the coverage an Arty regiment based in Yol or some such location can have.
Having this range allows these weapons to be based deeper within India which also means it is easier to replenish etc as opposed to say somewhere near Demchok where these will be targeted first up if things go south..
JMT.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Thanks . Essentially it means PLA employing ballistic missiles but in podded format with launcher SR5 Modular enough to accommodate various missiles / rockets. The nearest equivalent we jave is Prahar and it's variants and Pralay missileks_sachin wrote:Depends on the area you want to target. If you read the former DG Arty's article in this thread then he alludes what is involved in a the Chinese ingress into Ladakh.shaun wrote:Question is how much effective are area saturation weapons with 500km range , in our Eastern and northern front ?
Also this range allows for the weapon to be based quite flexibly.
You could potentially hit targets deeper from deeper within our territory. Imagine the coverage an Arty regiment based in Yol or some such location can have.
Having this range allows these weapons to be based deeper within India which also means it is easier to replenish etc as opposed to say somewhere near Demchok where these will be targeted first up if things go south..
JMT.
Last edited by shaun on 12 Sep 2022 07:53, edited 1 time in total.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
As a dumb weapon, it will be completely ineffective.shaun wrote:Question is how much effective are area saturation weapons with 500km range , in our Eastern and northern front ?
But as a guided rocket, it will be a frightening weapon. A force multiplier in terms of hitting deep targets. Think targets such as
1) runways.
2) non hardened air base infrastructure.
3) bridges.
4) rear area troop concentration.
5) logistics nodes, etc
A single rocket comes in and hits a bridge.
A single rocket comes in and hits the road at the mouth of a tunnel.
A single rocket hits a fuel dump. Because it's a rear area location. It's likely to cater to a wide front. Take it out and you cripple the enemies ability to manage logistics and re supply accross perhaps a 100 km wide frontage.
A single rocket hits anmo dump. Because it's a rear area location. All the above applies in this situation as well.
A rocket like this enables the enemy to conduct multi echelon offensive at once.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Thanks . My question was considering , tube artillery are used for area saturation using un guided rockets , as it's cheap and cover large area , which an artillery gun can't on range . What the Chinese have fielded / tested is essentially tactical ballastic missiles which are compatible with their existing launcher for unguided rockets namely AR-5 .Pratyush wrote:As a dumb weapon, it will be completely ineffective.shaun wrote:Question is how much effective are area saturation weapons with 500km range , in our Eastern and northern front ?
But as a guided rocket, it will be a frightening weapon. A force multiplier in terms of hitting deep targets. Think targets such as
1) runways.
2) non hardened air base infrastructure.
3) bridges.
4) rear area troop concentration.
5) logistics nodes, etc
A single rocket comes in and hits a bridge.
A single rocket comes in and hits the road at the mouth of a tunnel.
A single rocket hits a fuel dump. Because it's a rear area location. It's likely to cater to a wide front. Take it out and you cripple the enemies ability to manage logistics and re supply accross perhaps a 100 km wide frontage.
A single rocket hits anmo dump. Because it's a rear area location. All the above applies in this situation as well.
A rocket like this enables the enemy to conduct multi echelon offensive at once.
I think IA with its western adversary and nuclear ballastic missiles in mind is reticent using tactical ballastic missiles as there is no credible marker differentiating the two. Now weapon acquistion is more Chinese centric but it should have been our priority long back as what ever we throw against our northern neigbour is equally effective and superlative against our western adversary.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Does anyone else find it weird that Indian IDDM products have to go through countless trails in every Indian environment but imports can be ordered with the intention of only serving in one area (hence don’t get tested in any other sectors)?
https://twitter.com/ksingh_1469/status/ ... upQhzDL0zg
Anyway another 100 K9 is good stuff, article also says they want 300 total eventually (15 regiments) which is a decent number. Though this 100+100+100 approach will only lead to massive cost escalations and time delays.
+ no news about the 814 MGS requirement in a long time, these surely would be ideal for the Eastern sector?
https://twitter.com/ksingh_1469/status/ ... upQhzDL0zg
Anyway another 100 K9 is good stuff, article also says they want 300 total eventually (15 regiments) which is a decent number. Though this 100+100+100 approach will only lead to massive cost escalations and time delays.
+ no news about the 814 MGS requirement in a long time, these surely would be ideal for the Eastern sector?
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Annual whine incoming alert:
ATAGS order when?
ATAGS order when?
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Second / Third that whine.Thakur_B wrote:Annual whine incoming alert:
ATAGS order when?
The day we order ATAGS, is the day we hit complete atmanirbharta.. Everything else will fall in place. We will own the supply chain and the will to fight!
Chandigarh lobby will be end up chasing small ticket items.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
After their blackmail for ATHOS has workedThakur_B wrote:Annual whine incoming alert:
ATAGS order when?
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Continuing with the ATAGS story,
Indian Army boosting surveillance, fire power capability along frontier with China
Indian Army boosting surveillance, fire power capability along frontier with China
On the indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), the sources said it is in advanced stages of trial.
The sources said the user trials on the gun systems have been satisfactorily conducted and that there are few procedural issues that are being taken care of.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
You can’t make it up
The saga that will never end. You’d think these were space going vessels or SSBNs with the kind ‘thorough’ testing regime the IA puts these things through. The same army that inducts T90s for deserts without night sights and AC
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Indian Army’s artillery getting modernised to deal with adversaries.
Written by Huma Siddiqui
The modernisation of the Artillery of the Indian Army has gathered momentum with several important projects in the pipeline. And guns made in India are now being operationalised in the High Altitude Areas along the northern borders and along Line of Control.
The focus of this whole process has been on indigenisation under the Make in India initiative, this means now all the gun systems being used by the Indian Army in the last five years have been designed and developed in the country except the Ultra-Light Howitzer.
What is Artillery?
According to sources in the defence establishment Artillery consists of missiles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), guns and rockets. The UAVs have the capability to launch munitions far beyond the power and range of the infantry firearms.
Dhanush
In 2019, the Indian Army had signed a deal to procure 114 Dhanush 155 mm/45-calibre towed howitzers. These guns which have a strike range of 38 km have already been inducted in the Indian Army which has got 18 of them so far. These guns which were manufactured at the erstwhile Jabalpur-based Gun Carriage Factory (GCF), at a cost of Rs 14.50 crore, and each shell at Rs 1 lakh, are already active along the borders of China and Pakistan.
And, according to the source quoted above, by March 2023 the Army is expected to induct the second regiment of this gun.
With this gun Indian Army’s fire power has been augmented and paved the way for development of private gun manufacturing industry in India. The factory already has Bulk Production Clearance (BPC) for the production of 114 Dhanush, country’s first indigenous 155mm x 45 calibre artillery gun.
Before induction the gun had undergone trials and tests under extreme conditions in different phases in terrains like Leh, Sikkim, Balasore, Odisha, and Babina in Jhansi.
So far the indigenous material in this gun is around 90 percent and the private as well as public sector has been part of this project and these include: SAIL, BEL and OFB. The Indian Army, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and DGQA are all part of this project.
This gun has been mechanically and electronically upgraded on the basis of the first phase of Transfer of Technology (ToT) deal under the Bofors contract of the 1980s.
K-9 Vajra
Amidst the ongoing border standoff between the troops of Indian and Chinese armies since May 2020 in eastern Ladakh, the K9-Vajra self-propelled howitzer which weighs around 50 tonnes has been deployed by the Indian Army. These guns which are capable of firing 47-kg of bomb at the higher altitude have been deployed to help the Army to strengthen its position against the enemy.
According to the source, so far 100 K9 Vajra gun systems have been inducted and recently, DAC headed by defence minister Rajnath Singh has already given its approval for procurement of additional 100 K9 Vajra. And the process is set rolling and the Request for Proposal is going to be sent out soon.
Since these guns are already inducted in the army, there will be no further trials, now the vendor just has to submit the commercial bid and based on that the cost negotiations will take place.
These guns are deployed in desert areas, now the Army intends to deploy them in extreme cold temperature and for this the vendor will be asked to install winterization kits that include: lubricants, oil, and protection of battery, among others from freezing in the sub-zero temperature.
These 155mm/52 calibre guns which have a striking capability of 50 km have been made at the Armoured Systems Complex of Larsen and Toubro (L&T) located in Gujarat. It is under the ‘Make in India’ initiative at a cost of Rs 4,500 crore.
Sharang
This 130 mm gun system with a life and technology enhancement has a better accuracy, range, and consistency corroborating Indigenous Defence Capability.
The Army is getting prepared to get the 4th Regiment. The total volume required is 300 and this is expected to be completed in a year’s time. The source added that 15 Regiments are to be equipped with the Sharangs. And, “there is a need to upscale our capabilities and capacities, whether it is OFB, DPSUs or any other.”
Pinaka weapon system
The indigenous more advanced Pinaka weapon systems are in offing, said the source and informed that a contract for six more regiments have been signed by the Army and soon the delivery will start. And these six regiments are going to be equipped with mechanically and electronically improved weapon systems which are capable of firing different ammunition over longer ranges.
When will the Army be independent from importing Rocket Systems?
“We have dependence on Grad Multi Barrel Rocket launchers. Presently we have five regiments and Smerch which has been procured from Russia. But, the indigenous Pinaka has been a great success, not only in terms of launchers but also in bouquet of ammunition.”
Soon there will be trials for extended range of the Pinaka and the plan is to increase its range. With the help of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) the Army is exploring the possibility of extending the range to 100-125 kms.
In response to Chinese positioning of its artillery, the Indian Army has deployed one regiment of the Pinaka Rocket System along the Line of Actual Control in the northern borders. Financial Express Online has already reported that DAC gave approval for Guided Extended Range rockets for Pinaka.
Loitering Munitions
Loitering Munitions has proved their deadly effects in various conflicts globally.
For the Indian Army it will be through Emergency procurement. Last year the Army signed a contract and the delivery is expected to take place shortly. Also, the process of making it indigenously is on. And Indian companies are working on it and some are working together with Original manufacturers and soon they will master the technologies involved in this.
Once loitering munitions are inducted it will help in augmenting the army’s target acquisition and precision strike capability and surveillance.
ATAGS
These are in the advanced stages of trials. And have been designed and developed through a partnership between DRDO and the domestic industry. This system has many firsts to its credit, said the source. It has a 25 litre chamber, long range, and sustained and rapid rates of fire. The user trials so far have been satisfactory and few procedural issues are in the midst of being taken care of.
Ultra-Light Howitzers M777
These have already been validated in the Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh regions. So far there are no plans to procure more of these Ultra-Light Howitzers. So far India bought 145 ULH at US $ 750 million from the US to address specific operational requirements in specific sectors especially in the high altitude areas of northern borders and other tough terrains. These 155 mm/39-caliber M777 howitzers have a range of up to 30km. And they are capable of carrying out strikes at ranges of over 40 km in some areas.
Written by Huma Siddiqui
The modernisation of the Artillery of the Indian Army has gathered momentum with several important projects in the pipeline. And guns made in India are now being operationalised in the High Altitude Areas along the northern borders and along Line of Control.
The focus of this whole process has been on indigenisation under the Make in India initiative, this means now all the gun systems being used by the Indian Army in the last five years have been designed and developed in the country except the Ultra-Light Howitzer.
What is Artillery?
According to sources in the defence establishment Artillery consists of missiles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), guns and rockets. The UAVs have the capability to launch munitions far beyond the power and range of the infantry firearms.
Dhanush
In 2019, the Indian Army had signed a deal to procure 114 Dhanush 155 mm/45-calibre towed howitzers. These guns which have a strike range of 38 km have already been inducted in the Indian Army which has got 18 of them so far. These guns which were manufactured at the erstwhile Jabalpur-based Gun Carriage Factory (GCF), at a cost of Rs 14.50 crore, and each shell at Rs 1 lakh, are already active along the borders of China and Pakistan.
And, according to the source quoted above, by March 2023 the Army is expected to induct the second regiment of this gun.
With this gun Indian Army’s fire power has been augmented and paved the way for development of private gun manufacturing industry in India. The factory already has Bulk Production Clearance (BPC) for the production of 114 Dhanush, country’s first indigenous 155mm x 45 calibre artillery gun.
Before induction the gun had undergone trials and tests under extreme conditions in different phases in terrains like Leh, Sikkim, Balasore, Odisha, and Babina in Jhansi.
So far the indigenous material in this gun is around 90 percent and the private as well as public sector has been part of this project and these include: SAIL, BEL and OFB. The Indian Army, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and DGQA are all part of this project.
This gun has been mechanically and electronically upgraded on the basis of the first phase of Transfer of Technology (ToT) deal under the Bofors contract of the 1980s.
K-9 Vajra
Amidst the ongoing border standoff between the troops of Indian and Chinese armies since May 2020 in eastern Ladakh, the K9-Vajra self-propelled howitzer which weighs around 50 tonnes has been deployed by the Indian Army. These guns which are capable of firing 47-kg of bomb at the higher altitude have been deployed to help the Army to strengthen its position against the enemy.
According to the source, so far 100 K9 Vajra gun systems have been inducted and recently, DAC headed by defence minister Rajnath Singh has already given its approval for procurement of additional 100 K9 Vajra. And the process is set rolling and the Request for Proposal is going to be sent out soon.
Since these guns are already inducted in the army, there will be no further trials, now the vendor just has to submit the commercial bid and based on that the cost negotiations will take place.
These guns are deployed in desert areas, now the Army intends to deploy them in extreme cold temperature and for this the vendor will be asked to install winterization kits that include: lubricants, oil, and protection of battery, among others from freezing in the sub-zero temperature.
These 155mm/52 calibre guns which have a striking capability of 50 km have been made at the Armoured Systems Complex of Larsen and Toubro (L&T) located in Gujarat. It is under the ‘Make in India’ initiative at a cost of Rs 4,500 crore.
Sharang
This 130 mm gun system with a life and technology enhancement has a better accuracy, range, and consistency corroborating Indigenous Defence Capability.
The Army is getting prepared to get the 4th Regiment. The total volume required is 300 and this is expected to be completed in a year’s time. The source added that 15 Regiments are to be equipped with the Sharangs. And, “there is a need to upscale our capabilities and capacities, whether it is OFB, DPSUs or any other.”
Pinaka weapon system
The indigenous more advanced Pinaka weapon systems are in offing, said the source and informed that a contract for six more regiments have been signed by the Army and soon the delivery will start. And these six regiments are going to be equipped with mechanically and electronically improved weapon systems which are capable of firing different ammunition over longer ranges.
When will the Army be independent from importing Rocket Systems?
“We have dependence on Grad Multi Barrel Rocket launchers. Presently we have five regiments and Smerch which has been procured from Russia. But, the indigenous Pinaka has been a great success, not only in terms of launchers but also in bouquet of ammunition.”
Soon there will be trials for extended range of the Pinaka and the plan is to increase its range. With the help of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) the Army is exploring the possibility of extending the range to 100-125 kms.
In response to Chinese positioning of its artillery, the Indian Army has deployed one regiment of the Pinaka Rocket System along the Line of Actual Control in the northern borders. Financial Express Online has already reported that DAC gave approval for Guided Extended Range rockets for Pinaka.
Loitering Munitions
Loitering Munitions has proved their deadly effects in various conflicts globally.
For the Indian Army it will be through Emergency procurement. Last year the Army signed a contract and the delivery is expected to take place shortly. Also, the process of making it indigenously is on. And Indian companies are working on it and some are working together with Original manufacturers and soon they will master the technologies involved in this.
Once loitering munitions are inducted it will help in augmenting the army’s target acquisition and precision strike capability and surveillance.
ATAGS
These are in the advanced stages of trials. And have been designed and developed through a partnership between DRDO and the domestic industry. This system has many firsts to its credit, said the source. It has a 25 litre chamber, long range, and sustained and rapid rates of fire. The user trials so far have been satisfactory and few procedural issues are in the midst of being taken care of.
Ultra-Light Howitzers M777
These have already been validated in the Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh regions. So far there are no plans to procure more of these Ultra-Light Howitzers. So far India bought 145 ULH at US $ 750 million from the US to address specific operational requirements in specific sectors especially in the high altitude areas of northern borders and other tough terrains. These 155 mm/39-caliber M777 howitzers have a range of up to 30km. And they are capable of carrying out strikes at ranges of over 40 km in some areas.
Last edited by ramana on 01 Oct 2022 00:05, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Add Author name Ramana
Reason: Add Author name Ramana
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Vips, Thanks. In the future please add the author's name too.
There was a report about Carl Gustaf plan for make in India.
Any insight?
There was a report about Carl Gustaf plan for make in India.
Any insight?
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
The Ukraine conflict shows the advantage of long-range artillery and especially rockets.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Saab to set up mfg facility in India for Carl-Gustaf weapons systemramana wrote:There was a report about Carl Gustaf plan for make in India.
Any insight?
https://www.business-standard.com/artic ... 673_1.html
27 Sept 2022
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
What is Carl Gustaf M4 that Saab will make in India?
https://insidexpress.com/news/rifle-tha ... -sweden-2/
27 Sept 2022
https://insidexpress.com/news/rifle-tha ... -sweden-2/
27 Sept 2022
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
Thanks Rakesh.
So its for the lighter and longer range M4 version.
As noted
"the erstwhile Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was manufacturing Carl-Gustaf M3 with a range of up to 1,200 metres under a tie-up with Saab.
"Manufacturing under that understanding will continue," Johansson said.
He said Saab will continue its partnership with Munitions India Limited (MIL) and Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) to manufacture the Carl-Gustaf weapon and its ammunition."
DRDO had a decade-long project to build a lighter launcher using composites.
Looks like it's been discontinued.
So its for the lighter and longer range M4 version.
As noted
"the erstwhile Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was manufacturing Carl-Gustaf M3 with a range of up to 1,200 metres under a tie-up with Saab.
"Manufacturing under that understanding will continue," Johansson said.
He said Saab will continue its partnership with Munitions India Limited (MIL) and Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) to manufacture the Carl-Gustaf weapon and its ammunition."
DRDO had a decade-long project to build a lighter launcher using composites.
Looks like it's been discontinued.
Re: Artillery Corps: News & Discussion
All the news reports about the artillery modernization and new acquisitions that have appeared since yesterday, the sum total of it all ia asbelow:
1). Production of Sharang is continuing. As was reported earlier, 3 regiments have been handed over to IA and now 4th one is being raised. Total 300 guns are on order. No news about any additional orders of Sharang or if the older 180 Soltam upgraded guns would be upgraded/rectified to Sharang standard.
2). Dhanush production back on track. 1st regiment of 18 guns handed over to IA and deployed. The 2nd regiment is being raised. Hopefully by end of March 2023, the second batch of 18 guns will be delivered to IA. No news on any further orders or if the Dhanush-52 gun will be sent for trials. The original plan for the Dhanush was to induct 414 guns. First order of 114, followed by a second order for 300 guns. Also, GCF has developed a 52 caliber version as well and internal trials have reportedly been carried out.
3). Current pending order of 6 regiments of Pinaka is ongoing and under production. In future additional orders will be placed, especially for the guided version. No new order placed as of now.
4). Additional order of 100 K9 Vajra is being taken up. L&T will have to submit a new bid and thereafter the matter will go to CCS.
5). LSP order for 150 guns for ATAGS might get placed (finally, have been hearing about it since 2018!!). No idea when exactly this will happen though.
6). Loitering ammunition being looked at. No idea about which ones or from whom.
7). Orders for Swathi MK2 for the mountains has been placed.
1). Production of Sharang is continuing. As was reported earlier, 3 regiments have been handed over to IA and now 4th one is being raised. Total 300 guns are on order. No news about any additional orders of Sharang or if the older 180 Soltam upgraded guns would be upgraded/rectified to Sharang standard.
2). Dhanush production back on track. 1st regiment of 18 guns handed over to IA and deployed. The 2nd regiment is being raised. Hopefully by end of March 2023, the second batch of 18 guns will be delivered to IA. No news on any further orders or if the Dhanush-52 gun will be sent for trials. The original plan for the Dhanush was to induct 414 guns. First order of 114, followed by a second order for 300 guns. Also, GCF has developed a 52 caliber version as well and internal trials have reportedly been carried out.
3). Current pending order of 6 regiments of Pinaka is ongoing and under production. In future additional orders will be placed, especially for the guided version. No new order placed as of now.
4). Additional order of 100 K9 Vajra is being taken up. L&T will have to submit a new bid and thereafter the matter will go to CCS.
5). LSP order for 150 guns for ATAGS might get placed (finally, have been hearing about it since 2018!!). No idea when exactly this will happen though.
6). Loitering ammunition being looked at. No idea about which ones or from whom.
7). Orders for Swathi MK2 for the mountains has been placed.