NEW DELHI: In a major step toward strengthening its artillery capabilities, the Indian Army is preparing to conduct field trials of the Indigenous Mounted Gun System (MGS) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Designed to overcome the limitations of traditional towed artillery, the MGS is based on the 155mm/52 caliber Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) and is expected to deliver improved mobility, rapid deployment, and high firing efficiency.
The Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), the vehicle development arm of DRDO, has been tasked with conducting the trials. The Indian Army has provided specific trial parameters, and VRDE has already shared the gun’s operational details. The system boasts a maximum firing range of 45 km and a rate of fire of six rounds per minute, making it a potent asset for modern battlefield scenarios.
This advancement comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, where the Army used artillery systems extensively to target Pakistani positions along the Line of Control (LoC). The operation underscored the importance of artillery’s ability to strike deep, shift targets quickly, operate in all weather conditions, and utilize various types of ammunition—strengths that the MGS further enhances.
According to VRDE officials, traditional towed guns often faced logistical challenges in reaching difficult terrains. “Mobility is key in today’s battlefield. ‘Shoot and scoot’ tactics are essential for survival and effectiveness, and the MGS is designed with that philosophy in mind,” said a senior DRDO official.
The new MGS comes with several standout features:
• Elevation capability of up to 72 degrees
• Traverse range of 30 degrees on either side
• Deployment and retraction time of just 85 seconds
• Capacity for seven crew members, with seating for six in the main cabin and space for one more inside the vehicle body
• Storage provisions for a generator, control unit, and ammunition, both near the gun and within the cabin
As part of the Indian Army’s broader artillery modernization program, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts in March 2025 worth approximately ₹6,900 crore for procuring 307 ATAGS guns and 327 high-mobility 6×6 gun-towing vehicles. These are being supplied by Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited, respectively.
Bharat Forge has also been selected as the Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) for the MGS project, while BEML is working on developing the platform with an armored crew cabin.
A few years ago, a Request for Proposal (RFP) for 300 Mounted Gun Systems was floated, attracting interest from several leading defence manufacturers. With successful trials, the MGS is expected to fill a critical technological and operational gap in India’s artillery force structure.
“The moment the Army is satisfied with the trial results, production will commence immediately,” said DRDO officials, expressing confidence that the system would perform efficiently, especially in high-altitude and border areas.
The Mounted Gun System represents a significant leap in India’s self-reliant defence initiative, ensuring the Army is equipped with cutting-edge firepower that is both mobile and mission-ready in the most challenging operational environments.
