English
Armenia has surfaced as a potential buyer of Indian arms and it has now expressed interest in ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System) howitzers which are developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Amid tension with Azerbaijan which has proximity with Turkey, Armenia is reportedly in talks with Bharat Forge Limited’s subsidiary company Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited which develops security arms for 78 ATAGS howitzers.
Armenia took the decision after witnessing the success of six ATAGS howitzers which displayed the outstanding capabilities in different parts of the country. India had supplied six ATAGS howitzers to Armenia. The country has tested these howitzers in plains, rocky mountains and in other territorial parts of the country. Now, Armenia is planning to purchase these artillery gun systems.
The Armenia’s defense ministry has asked its officials to give feedback on ATAGS so they can demand an advanced version of the artillery gun system in the next batch. Focusing on Armenia’s needs, there is a computer interface in the system which deals in Armenian language. It is expected that Armenia may give a few suggestions to upgrade the ATAGS.
Demand for 78 ATAGS is a sign of increasing inter collaboration between India and Armenia. Prior to this Armenia has included Pinaka multi barrel rocket launcher, Akash missile and other military instruments in its armed forces.
On the other hand, the Indian Army plans to induct a new 155mm, 52-caliber Towed Artillery Gun System, which would be faster and lighter than the ATAGS.
