SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Following the remarkable success of its upgraded L-70 40mm anti-aircraft guns in neutralizing Turkish drones deployed by Pakistan, the Indian Army is gearing up to announce a successor to these aging yet effective systems. Informed sources cited by idrw.org reveal that the Army is planning to issue tenders for the procurement of over 1,000 next-generation Air Defence (AD) guns in the first batch, signaling a major modernization drive for its air defense capabilities.
The L-70 guns, originally developed over five decades ago, have demonstrated their enduring relevance in recent conflicts, thanks to significant digital upgrades. Equipped with modern radar, electro-optical sensors, and auto-tracking systems, these guns have proven highly effective in countering unmanned aerial threats, including Turkish drones operated by Pakistan. The upgrades have enhanced the L-70’s precision and responsiveness, allowing it to adapt to the evolving demands of modern warfare.
Despite their success, the Indian Army recognizes the need to transition to advanced platforms to maintain a technological edge. While the upgraded L-70s have performed admirably, many units in the Army’s inventory remain unmodernized, prompting the push for a new generation of air defense guns.
The Corps of Army Air Defence currently operates a diverse inventory of missile systems and guns, including the L-70, Zu-23mm, Schilka, Tunguska, and Osa-AK missile systems. However, the L-70 and Zu-23mm guns, which form the backbone of the Army’s short-range air defense, are slated for replacement with cutting-edge successor platforms. These new systems are expected to incorporate advanced technologies such as improved fire control systems, enhanced sensors, and greater automation to counter sophisticated aerial threats, including drones, low-flying aircraft, and missiles.
Sources indicate that the Army is prioritizing indigenous development for these successor platforms, aligning with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative. Unlike missile systems, where imports have occasionally been considered, the Army is not looking to procure foreign guns for this requirement, emphasizing domestic innovation and manufacturing.
The Indian Army has already taken concrete steps toward acquiring these next-generation AD guns. A Request for Proposal (RFP) has been issued for the procurement of 220 such guns, with trials expected to commence soon. The successful completion of these trials could pave the way for the first batch of orders, with plans to acquire over 1,000 guns in the initial phase. This large-scale procurement underscores the Army’s commitment to bolstering its air defense capabilities to address emerging threats along India’s borders.
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