Kalyani Strategic Systems to Boost Indigenous Content in ATAGS to Over 80%
In a significant move toward self-reliance in India’s defense sector, Kalyani Strategic Systems (KSSL), a subsidiary of Bharat Forge Ltd., has revealed plans to increase the indigenous content of their Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) to over 80%.
- The Chairman emphasized that everything is being made in-house, ensuring that the ATAGS will be a purely Indian-developed and manufactured platform. This marks a strategic step to reduce reliance on foreign components.
The ATAGS: A Flagship Project for India’s Artillery Modernization
Developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the ATAGS is a 155mm/52 caliber towed howitzer.
- Initially, the indigenous content stood at about 60%, a remarkable achievement for such a complex system.
- KSSL is now working to increase this figure to 80% as production scales up, signaling their commitment to in-house manufacturing and localization in the defense sector.
Landmark Contract and Production Split
In March 2025, KSSL secured a landmark contract from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for 307 ATAGS units.
- KSSL emerged as the lowest bidder (L1) and will manufacture 184 guns, while Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), the second-lowest bidder (L2), will produce the remaining 123 guns.
- This split underscores the MoD’s strategy to encourage competition while leveraging the strengths of India’s private defense sector.
Strategic Importance of Exceeding 80% Indigenous Content
By boosting the indigenous content of the ATAGS, KSSL aims to reduce vulnerabilities associated with importing parts.
- The company is focusing on producing critical components domestically, such as barrels, breech systems, and advanced electronics.
- This strategy aligns with the “Make in India” initiative, which seeks to position India as a global hub for defense manufacturing.
ATAGS: A Testament to Indian Ingenuity
The ATAGS is an advanced artillery system capable of firing at ranges up to 48 kilometers, one of the longest in its class.
- It features advanced automation, a software-driven firing system, and high mobility across diverse terrains, making it a cornerstone of the Indian Army’s modernization efforts.
- The 307-gun contract, valued at approximately ₹7,000 crore (US$800 million), also includes 327 gun-towing vehicles, further boosting the Army’s operational capabilities.
Scaling Up Production for Global Reach
KSSL is ramping up its production capacity at its state-of-the-art facility in Pune.
- The company is set to produce over 350 guns annually, equating to one gun per day.
- This scale not only meets domestic needs but positions KSSL as a major player in the global defense market, with notable export deals, including 100 artillery guns to Armenia in 2024.
