Armenia is deepening its defence cooperation with India, expressing significant interest in an upgraded artillery system after the successful integration of Indian-made howitzers into its ground forces.
Following the operational success of the MArG 155mm/39 caliber (MArG 39) system, Armenia is now evaluating the newer, more powerful MArG 155mm/45 caliber (MArG 45) variant to modernize its military capabilities amidst ongoing regional tensions.
This move signals a growing strategic partnership that has positioned India as one of Armenia's primary defence suppliers.
In a landmark deal signed in November 2022, Armenia placed a $155.5 million order for 72 MArG 39 wheeled self-propelled howitzers from Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a subsidiary of Bharat Forge.
The selection was driven by Armenia's urgent need to replace artillery lost in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war and to acquire mobile systems effective in its mountainous terrain.
By mid-2024, the MArG 39 had passed extensive operational tests across various Armenian landscapes, proving its reliability and marksmanship in high-altitude conditions.
The 18-ton system, mounted on a 4x4 truck, is designed for rapid "shoot-and-scoot" tactics, capable of being deployed in under two minutes. This agility is crucial for survival against modern drone and counter-battery threats.
Building on this positive experience, Armenia is now considering the MArG 45. Unveiled by KSSL in February 2025, this upgraded version was developed in response to feedback from Armenia for greater range.
The MArG 45 extends the firing distance from the MArG 39's 24 km to over 36 km with conventional ammunition. While slightly heavier at 23.5 tons, it retains the highly mobile 4x4 chassis and rapid deployment features.
Its ability to fire and relocate quickly directly addresses lessons learned from recent global conflicts where stationary artillery is highly vulnerable.
This deepening collaboration underscores India's emergence as a significant global defence exporter. KSSL's ability to rapidly develop and offer an upgraded system tailored to a client's needs highlights the maturity of India's private defence sector.
The compatibility of these systems with NATO-standard ammunition is a key factor for Armenia as it seeks to diversify its military hardware beyond its traditional Soviet-era inventory.
To further bolster its capabilities, Armenia is also acquiring other Indian artillery systems. The country has already received an initial batch of the 155mm/52 caliber Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), which boasts an even longer range of 48 km.
Developed by the DRDO in partnership with KSSL and Tata Advanced Systems Limited, the ATAGS provides a heavier, longer-range option. Reports indicate that after successful trials of an initial six units in 2023, Armenia plans to procure an additional 84.
By acquiring a mix of agile MArG systems and powerful ATAGS platforms, Armenia is strategically building a layered and versatile artillery force, enhancing its defensive posture in the complex geopolitical landscape of the South Caucasus.
