SOURCE: AFI
The Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its artillery capabilities by collaborating with private vendors for the development of the 155mm Towed Gun System (TGS). In July 2024, AWEIL released an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the selection of a strategic partner for a long-term collaboration agreement. This agreement aims to facilitate the co-development and co-production of the TGS, with leading contenders such as Tata and L&T at the forefront of this collaboration.
As part of the TGS program, AWEIL is expected to offer its Dhanush 155×52 Towed Gun System. This system is an upgraded version of the Dhanush 155×45 Calibre Gun, which faced significant delays and quality control issues during its development. The earlier program was delayed by four years due to these challenges, and AWEIL is keen to avoid repeating the same mistakes.
By involving private sector companies like Tata and L&T, AWEIL aims to leverage their expertise and advanced manufacturing capabilities. This collaboration is expected to bring a new level of precision and quality to the TGS program, ensuring that the mistakes of the past are not repeated. The partnership also aligns with the government’s push for increased private sector participation in defense manufacturing, which is seen as a key driver for modernization and self-reliance.
The Dhanush 155×45 Calibre Gun program’s delays were a significant setback for AWEIL, affecting the Indian Army’s artillery modernization plans. The decision to bring in private sector partners reflects AWEIL’s commitment to overcoming these challenges and delivering a reliable, world-class artillery system. By ensuring stringent quality control and timely delivery, the new TGS program aims to meet the high expectations of the Indian Army.
AWEIL’s move to collaborate with private vendors for the Towed Gun System marks a pivotal moment in India’s defense manufacturing landscape. With the lessons learned from the Dhanush 155×45 Calibre Gun program and the involvement of industry leaders like Tata and L&T, the TGS program is poised to deliver a robust and reliable artillery system. This collaboration not only strengthens India’s defense capabilities but also reinforces the growing role of the private sector in the nation’s defense industry.