In a significant advancement for India's armored capabilities, the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) is developing a new 120mm smoothbore gun for the highly anticipated Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV).
This move marks a departure from the 120mm rifled gun currently employed in the Arjun Main Battle Tank (MBT) and aligns India with the global trend towards smoothbore technology in modern tank design.
The FRCV program, envisioned as a successor to the aging T-72 fleet, aims to introduce a cutting-edge armored platform to meet the Indian Army's future combat requirements.
By opting for a smoothbore cannon, known for its superior performance in firing fin-stabilized projectiles with high velocity and accuracy, India is demonstrating its commitment to equipping its armed forces with next-generation technology.
While the Arjun MBT's rifled gun offers advantages in long-range accuracy with traditional munitions, it is generally considered less effective for modern kinetic energy-based armor-piercing rounds. Smoothbore cannons, on the other hand, excel in delivering these high-energy rounds, providing a crucial edge in contemporary battlefield scenarios.
This shift to smoothbore technology reflects India's ambition to stay competitive in the global arms race. The FRCV, equipped with the ARDE-developed 120mm smoothbore gun, is expected to be a highly capable armored fighting vehicle, incorporating cutting-edge advancements in mobility, protection, and firepower.
The new gun is likely to be integrated with advanced fire control systems, thermal imagers, and sophisticated targeting aids, ensuring the FRCV can engage targets with pinpoint accuracy even in challenging conditions.
Though the development of this indigenous 120mm smoothbore gun presents challenges, ARDE's extensive experience in large-caliber weaponry development positions them well for success. This initiative is part of a broader push by India to modernize its defense forces and achieve self-reliance in defense production.
The FRCV program goes beyond simply replacing the T-72 tanks. It envisions a versatile platform adaptable for various roles, including infantry fighting vehicles, anti-aircraft systems, and other specialized functions, further highlighting the advantages of a smoothbore main gun.
