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Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd. (KSSL), the defence manufacturing branch of Bharat Forge Limited, has formally introduced its homegrown MaRG 39 artillery system at the Eurosatory 2026 exhibition in Paris.
By presenting this 155mm/39-calibre truck-mounted self-propelled howitzer at one of the world's most prominent land warfare expos, the Indian company aims to capture the attention of the European defence market.
As several European countries look to swiftly upgrade their military capabilities in response to emerging regional security threats, KSSL is positioning its advanced mobile gun as a cost-effective and highly adaptable solution.
The system has already proven its international appeal.
Notably, the MaRG 39 achieved a major export milestone when a batch of 72 units was ordered by the Armenian Army to bolster its ground forces. This successful deployment underscores India’s rising status as a reliable exporter of advanced military hardware.
Leveraging this established track record, KSSL is now pitching the weapon system to European armed forces that need modern, fast-moving artillery platforms capable of performing in complex and unpredictable environments.
Designed and manufactured entirely in India, the MaRG (Multi-terrain Artillery Gun) 39 is built on a high-mobility 4x4 chassis, setting it apart from traditional heavy towed guns that take significant time to set up and dismantle.
The system is engineered specifically for "shoot-and-scoot" tactics. With a rapid deployment time of just 1.5 minutes during daylight hours, military crews can fire their payload and immediately relocate before enemy forces can pinpoint their location and launch a counter-attack.
In contemporary warfare, where drone surveillance and quick counter-battery fire are constant threats, this agility is crucial for troop survival.
A standout characteristic of the MaRG 39 is its exceptional performance in rugged and high-altitude landscapes.
The vehicle can navigate steep gradients of up to 25 degrees, making it ideal for mountainous borders where traditional tracked artillery simply cannot operate.
Weighing roughly 18 to 22 tonnes depending on the specific configuration, it is substantially lighter than standard 6x6 or 8x8 mounted systems.
This reduced weight not only solves severe logistical hurdles in difficult terrain but also allows the gun to be easily airlifted by military transport planes like the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III or the Ilyushin Il-76.
This unique blend of firepower and manoeuvrability makes the MaRG 39 a compelling choice for European militaries tasked with securing challenging, mountainous topographies.
By integrating the striking power of a NATO-standard 155mm gun with the agility of a rugged truck, the system dramatically cuts down on maintenance efforts and logistical footprints when compared to heavier, tracked self-propelled units.
The artillery piece can carry 18 rounds of ammunition on board, sustain a high rate of fire, and features a modern fire-control system that supports digitised artillery coordination.
Ultimately, KSSL's high-profile display at Eurosatory 2026 highlights India's strategic push to transition from an arms importer to a global supplier of sophisticated defence equipment.
With European defence budgets expanding and governments actively diversifying their military procurement sources, homegrown Indian platforms like the MaRG 39 provide an attractive package.
They deliver cutting-edge technology, operational flexibility, and crucial interoperability with allied forces at a highly competitive price point.
