Indo-French TRAJAN Howitzer, Combining CAESAR Power with 40% Local Content, Eyes Indian Army's 155mm TGS Contract

The L&T Nexter consortium has entered the competition for the Indian Army's Towed Gun System (TGS) contract with its cutting-edge 155mm/52cal towed howitzer, the TRAJAN. This development comes as the Indian Army seeks to modernize its artillery with advanced, dependable systems that are manufactured domestically.

Based on the proven CAESAR artillery system, which is currently deployed by the French Army and other international forces, the TRAJAN offers a combat-tested solution.

The Indian Army has subjected the TRAJAN to rigorous evaluation, including extensive firing and mobility trials conducted across diverse terrains and challenging climatic conditions. These tests assessed the howitzer's ability to deliver superior firepower, characterized by faster response times, extended range, and improved accuracy – all essential attributes in contemporary warfare.

Notably, even at the prototype stage, 40% of the TRAJAN's components are produced in India. This local production not only contributes to the Indian economy but also ensures the system is tailored to the specific operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces.

The TRAJAN's 155mm 52 Caliber cannon provides significant firepower, allowing it to cover wider areas with fewer units due to its extended range and precision. This efficiency is crucial for minimizing the number of assets deployed in combat situations.

Designed for rapid deployment and maneuverability, the TRAJAN is well-suited for quick response operations. Its ability to be swiftly repositioned after firing minimizes vulnerability to counter-battery fire, thereby enhancing the safety of artillery crews.

Further bolstering its credentials, the TRAJAN recently secured an export deal with Armenia, demonstrating its international recognition and the consortium's competitiveness in the global arms market. This export agreement not only underscores the TRAJAN's reliability and performance but also positions India as a potential exporter of sophisticated military technology.

 

[Hari Sud]

It is 50% foreign as opposed to ATAGS which is 100% Indian and has a longer range.

 

[sanket]

It is 50% foreign as opposed to ATAGS which is 100% Indian and has a longer range.

Only 40% components produced in Bharat for TRAJAN & Based on French CAESAR, Again for 60% components has to imported

 

[obiwankenubi jedi]

So it's ATAGS vs Nexter, when will we decide? What is the problem with the ATAGS?

 

[Sandeep]

There is a zero chance of any foreign gun winning the tender even if parts are manufactured under a license by an Indian company.

Firstly, there’s an arms embargo that prevents importing the gun even if they are manufacturing the gun in India under an Indian company.

Secondly, there’s far too many Indian companies that have 100% indigenously designed, developed and manufactured their own gun in India. There is the ATAGS where orders for 300 guns have been placed and more orders will be placed after completing the first batch so they are just negotiating the deal on the price and manufacturing amount and capacity every year.

Thirdly, we have the Dhanush from AWEIL and despite the long delays production has started and guns are being delivered to the army. Then we have companies like Kalyani and Tata who have a variety of guns that we will definitely receive.