SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The effectiveness of towed artillery guns has been a topic of debate in the wake of the Ukraine conflict. While counter-battery fire has proven adept at quickly targeting towed guns, the Indian Army remains committed to their use alongside Mounted Gun Systems (MGS).
The war in Ukraine has shed light on the vulnerability of towed artillery to counter-battery fire. Advanced radar technology allows enemy forces to locate the origin of artillery fire within minutes, potentially putting towed guns at risk. This has led some former Indian Army officials to advocate for a full transition to MGS.
However, internal studies conducted by the Indian Army have concluded that MGSs are more vulnerable due to their larger size and ease of detection. People familar with the study have told idrw.org that the Towed guns, especially those equipped with auxiliary power units for independent movement, offer several advantages:
- Concealment: Towed guns have a smaller footprint and can be easily hidden, making them harder to target.
- Relocation: They can be quickly relocated between firing positions, further reducing the risk of counter-battery fire.
- Defensive Deployment: Their placement in defensive positions can further complicate enemy targeting efforts.
Adding to the towed gun’s appeal, their procurement cost is reportedly 20-30% lower than MGS. This translates to significant savings for the Indian Army when acquiring large quantities of artillery.
The M777 towed howitzer has proven its effectiveness in Ukraine. This lightweight and highly mobile gun system aligns well with the Indian Army’s needs. Consequently, the Army reportedly seeks to upgrade the M777 calibre to 52mm to bolster its artillery capabilities.
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