SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development for India’s defence exports, an informed source close to idrw.org has revealed that Saudi Arabia could be the next customer for the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) 155×52, developed by Bharat Forge. This news comes after Saudi Arabia previously tested the Bharat-52, another 155mm, 52 calibre towed howitzer from Bharat Forge, which did not lead to a finalized deal.
The ATAGS, a product of collaboration between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Forge, represents a leap in indigenous artillery technology. Designed to meet the Indian Army’s requirements for a modern, high-performance howitzer, the ATAGS features an extended range, sophisticated fire control systems, and enhanced mobility compared to its predecessors.
Saudi Arabia’s renewed interest in Indian artillery systems isn’t surprising, given the historical context. The Bharat-52, which was trialled by the Saudi military, is a derivative of the GC-45 towed howitzer originally designed by the Canadian artillery expert Gerald Bull’s Space Research Corporation. The GC-45 has been in service with the Saudi Army, which might explain their interest in Bharat Forge’s artillery solutions, which maintain a lineage with systems they are already familiar with.
The ATAGS has already proven its market viability by securing a deal with Armenia, marking a significant milestone for Indian defence exports. Moreover, the Indian Army is set to procure 307 units to replace its ageing artillery inventory, further validating the system’s capabilities through rigorous field tests and trials.
The interest from Saudi Arabia underscores the growing international recognition of Indian defence products, particularly in the artillery segment. Bharat Forge, through its Kalyani Strategic Systems division, has been actively pushing the envelope in defence manufacturing, with ATAGS being one of its flagship products. This potential sale could not only open new markets for Indian defence exports but also strengthen bilateral defence cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia.
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