The Indian Army is steadily progressing towards inducting a new 155mm Mounted Gun System (MGS), designed to enhance its artillery capabilities in modern warfare.
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi announced that over 300 trials of this innovative system have already been conducted, with plans to conclude the extensive testing phase by early 2026.
The MGS, adapted from the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE)’s Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), is mounted on an 8×8 high mobility vehicle for superior battlefield maneuverability.
This self-propelled howitzer is specifically designed to meet the dynamic needs of modern combat, emphasizing the "shoot and scoot" tactic – engaging targets and rapidly relocating to avoid counter-battery fire.
General Dwivedi expressed confidence in the MGS, stating that trials conducted so far have yielded promising results. However, he emphasized the Army's commitment to rigorous testing in diverse operational scenarios to ensure combat readiness.
The MGS is being meticulously evaluated for its effectiveness in both desert and high-altitude environments, reflecting the varied terrain challenges faced by the Indian Army.
The system boasts a maximum firing range of 45 kilometers with exceptional accuracy, providing a significant tactical advantage. This long reach, combined with precision strike capabilities, allows the Indian Army to engage targets deep within enemy territory while minimizing risks to its own forces.
Crucially, the MGS is designed for rapid deployment, aligning with the mobility of mechanized forces. This ensures that artillery support can keep pace with fast-moving combat units, providing timely and accurate fire support.
The upcoming trials will focus on validating the MGS's performance under diverse environmental conditions, including extreme cold, heat, and high altitudes prevalent in India's strategic operational areas.
These tests will also refine the system's logistics, maintenance procedures, and integration with other military systems, ensuring seamless operation within the broader military framework.
By conducting these comprehensive trials, the Indian Army is taking a crucial step towards fielding a highly mobile and potent artillery system capable of meeting the challenges of modern warfare across diverse terrains.
