SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant step toward enhancing the Indian Army’s operational flexibility, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has granted the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of the 105 mm/37 Calibre Mounted Gun System (Paradroppable), along with its associated ammunition vehicle. Announced on April 11, 2025, this acquisition aligns with India’s push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, as the system will be procured under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category as per Chapter II of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020.
The Request for Proposal (RFP) for this critical artillery system is expected to be issued by June 1, 2025, setting the stage for a competitive bidding process that prioritizes indigenous design and manufacturing.
The procurement falls under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category of DAP 2020, which mandates that the system be designed, developed, and manufactured by Indian companies with a minimum of 40% indigenous content (IC). However, the MoD has also opened the door for vendors eligible under the ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category—Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured—with a stricter requirement of at least 50% IC on the base contract price. This dual eligibility ensures a wider pool of participants while prioritizing indigenous innovation, aligning with India’s goal of reducing dependence on foreign defense imports.
The 105 mm/37 Cal Mounted Gun System addresses a critical gap in the Indian Army’s artillery inventory, particularly for rapid-response units like the Parachute Regiment and Mountain Strike Corps. Its paradroppable design allows for deployment in high-altitude or inaccessible regions, where heavier systems like the 155 mm M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer—already in service with the Army—may be less practical due to logistical constraints. The system’s maximum combat weight of 8 tons ensures it can be airlifted by helicopters like the Chinook or dropped by IL-76 and C-130J aircraft, enhancing the Army’s ability to project power in contested border areas.
The specified range—up to 17,000 meters—enables the gun to provide fire support over significant distances, while its compatibility with in-service 105 mm ammunition leverages existing stockpiles, reducing costs and simplifying logistics. The 20-year service life and 4500 EFC barrel life ensure the system remains a reliable asset for decades, supporting India’s long-term defense modernization goals.
Key Specifications of the 105 mm/37 Cal Mounted Gun System
The MoD has outlined detailed specifications for the paradroppable gun system, emphasizing its suitability for rapid deployment in diverse terrains, particularly for airborne and special forces operations. The key aspects include:
- Calibre: 105 mm, ensuring compatibility with existing ammunition stocks.
- Barrel Length: 37 Calibre, providing a balance of range and portability.
- Maximum Combat Weight: ? 8 tons (excluding ammunition, accessories, and crew), making it lightweight for air-droppable missions.
- Service Life: Not less than 20 years, ensuring long-term operational reliability.
- Range: Minimum range of ? 2500 meters and a maximum range of ? 17,000 meters, offering versatility for both close support and extended engagements.
- Ammunition Compatibility: Capable of firing in-service 105 mm ammunition, reducing logistical burdens.
- Barrel Life: Minimum 4500 Equivalent Full Charge (EFC), guaranteeing durability under sustained use.
- Maximum Dimensions for Paradrop:
- Length: ? 6 meters (20 feet)
- Height: ? 2.13 meters (7 feet)
- Width (wheel base): ? 2.6 meters (8.6 feet)
These specifications reflect the Indian Army’s need for a lightweight, air-transportable artillery system that can be rapidly deployed via parachute, supporting operations in remote or contested areas like the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China or the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
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