Ukraine Conflict Highlights Urgent Need for Indian Army to Modernize Artillery

The brutal war in Ukraine has delivered a chilling message: artillery reigns supreme on the battlefield, with a staggering 80% of casualties attributed to its fire. This grim reality underscores the urgent need for the Indian Army to modernize its artillery arsenal, particularly with the expedited acquisition of 155/52 caliber towed gun systems.

Throughout history, artillery has been hailed as the "God of War," its thunderous power shaping the course of countless battles. In the current conflict, where urban warfare and unconventional tactics are the norm, artillery's importance is magnified. Its long-range reach, devastating firepower, and precision capabilities make it a formidable force multiplier.

For the Indian Army, upgrading to 155/52 caliber guns is a critical step towards enhancing its overall combat capabilities. These modern artillery systems offer a potent combination of extended range, accuracy, and destructive force. They enable the army to engage targets with precision and decisiveness across diverse terrains and operational scenarios.

The acquisition of advanced artillery systems is crucial for India to maintain a competitive edge against its regional adversaries. Embracing technological advancements is key to achieving strategic advantage. In an era marked by rapid technological innovation and geopolitical shifts, agility and adaptability are non-negotiable. Modernizing the Indian Army's artillery inventory is not just an option – it's a necessity to ensure operational superiority and mission success.

The Indian Army has already initiated procurement processes for 155/52 caliber guns. To address evolving threats and the complexities of modern warfare, these processes must be accelerated. Bureaucratic hurdles must be streamlined to ensure these vital weapons reach the frontlines swiftly.

The global artillery landscape offers a glimpse into the advancements driving this field. Systems like the Dhanush, a domestically produced 155mm howitzer, showcase India's strides in indigenous artillery development. Internationally, systems like the ATMOS 2000 and CAESAR self-propelled howitzers demonstrate the cutting-edge technologies being integrated into modern artillery platforms. These systems emphasize mobility, automation, and advanced fire control, further highlighting the need for India to keep pace with evolving global standards.

Modernizing artillery capabilities is no longer a choice for the Indian Army, but a strategic imperative. The lessons from Ukraine underscore the pivotal role of artillery in contemporary warfare. By embracing advanced technology like 155/52 caliber guns, the Indian Army can ensure it remains a formidable force, ready to face any challenge on the battlefield.

Do you think the Indian Army should prioritize the acquisition of 155/52 caliber guns? What other advancements would you like to see in India's artillery capabilities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

 

[Hraday]

The army is deliberately delaying the purchase on flimsy grounds.

 

[Kira]

No doubt that artillery especially the 155mm is critical,but IA going forward should reverse the ratio of induction for towed and mobile guns with substantially more of the latter than the former.

 

[Taus Melek]

By all means modernis the artillery, but this should not just mean static/self propelled guns, but also systems on the lines of US ATACMS, combined with relevant air support and real time intelligence.

 

[kumar]

Irony is, the main hurdle for induction is IA itself. To rub it in, sss defence has just won a order to export 0.338 sniper rifle to a foreign country. IA doesn't induct, but foreign countries do.

 

[Vivek Sahgal]

Towed artillery is obsolete, there is rapid counterfire. It is important to build up a stockpile of self propelled artillery so you have fire and scoot capability. This saves you from enemy counter fire.

 

[venkat]

IA generals will talk of fighting with whatever we have and so on but not order from Kalyani. They are only good for wearing uniform and showing up on Jan 26th

 

[Sandeep]

IA generals will talk of fighting with whatever we have and so on but not order from Kalyani. They are only good for wearing uniform and showing up on Jan 26th

Orders will be given soon as the tender has already been issued so an Indian company will get these contracts.

 

[Sandeep]

The army have already issued the tenders for the artillery guns and they will purchase 300 ATAGS this year which is good as its capabilities, accuracy, navigation, targeting are very advanced. The army are also going to buy towed and mounted guns from an Indian company so more orders will be given this year. In the meantime they will continue to receive more Dhanush guns that were ordered.

 

[PKS]

To expedite matters make a new rule for example any DAC session will continue unabated until any request by the forces has been decided upon.

 

[Official]

It seems there is a new "king of the battlefield" and that is the aerial guided glide bomb capable of dealing devastating damage and that too out of the range of most SAM'S. India needs to quickly develop a range of heavier glide bombs capable of carrying upto 5000kg of explosives. The glide bombs can quickly dismantle any fortifications in a couple of days if used in sufficient quantity. Blitzkrieg style flanking assault paired with glide bombs is what will make us reign supreme against china and pakistan.

 

[Kam Guite]

Quality as well as quantity is important. Pulverize enemy positions with smart and dumb explosives for day in and day out for months. Then enemies will wither in the vines

 

[Kam Guite]

The army is deliberately delaying the purchase on flimsy grounds.

No, babus in MoD are the culprits all along.