SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is progressing with the development of advanced 120mm and 125mm smooth-bore gun systems to equip India’s upcoming Next Generation Main Battle Tank (NGMBT) under the Future Main Battle Tank (FMBT) program. Both gun variants are smooth-bore, a design choice that enhances projectile velocity and penetrative capability compared to rifled barrels, marking a significant technological advancement for India’s armored warfare capabilities.
The NGMBT/FMBT program is part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its armoured corps with cutting-edge, indigenously designed systems. With both 120mm and 125mm smooth-bore options in development, DRDO aims to provide the Indian Army with a flexible choice depending on mission requirements and compatibility with evolving ammunition technologies. The development of these two variants highlights DRDO’s strategy to enhance both firepower and compatibility with future ammunition systems, such as advanced armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds and high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) projectiles.
Smooth-bore guns are typically favored for their ability to fire high-velocity rounds with less barrel wear and improved accuracy. In the NGMBT/FMBT context, a smooth-bore gun offers several advantages over traditional rifled designs:
By developing both 120mm and 125mm variants, DRDO provides India with flexibility in terms of armament choice. The decision between the two calibers will likely hinge on factors such as range, projectile velocity, and ammunition availability. The 125mm caliber is traditionally favored for its robust firepower and compatibility with widely available munitions in the international market, while the 120mm offers more efficient weight management, potentially beneficial for increased mobility.
The FMBT program envisions a future-ready tank platform, integrating modern technologies like active protection systems, advanced composite armor, and enhanced situational awareness tools. DRDO’s work on these advanced smooth-bore gun systems underscores its commitment to producing a fully indigenous, combat-ready tank for the Indian Army.
While the timeline for the final selection and testing of these guns remains uncertain, DRDO’s simultaneous development of 120mm and 125mm smooth-bore options is expected to bring flexibility to India’s defense manufacturing strategy and bolster its armored capabilities in a competitive regional defense landscape.
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