The Indian Army is set to gain a new strength with DRDO’s Mounted Gun System. Learn about its features, price, and why it is crucial for India. India is moving swiftly towards becoming self-reliant in its defence sector. In the past, we had to depend on other countries for weapons and advanced technologies, but today, we are capable of building them ourselves.
A fresh example of this is the Mounted Gun System developed by DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization), which is being seen as a powerful addition to the Indian Army’s arsenal. This is not just a gun but a symbol of India’s technological strength and self-reliance.
What Is the Mounted Gun System? Explained in Simple Words
The Mounted Gun System is a large and powerful cannon mounted on a truck, designed by DRDO specifically for the needs of the Indian Army.
- It is a 155mm/52 calibre gun, meaning its shells are large and capable of long-range destruction.
- Being truck-mounted, it can be moved quickly wherever needed.
- It has a firing range of up to 45 kilometers, allowing it to target enemy positions from afar.
- It can fire 6 shells in one minute, enabling fast and effective strikes during war.
What Is the “Shoot and Scoot” Feature?
The biggest highlight of this gun is its “Shoot and Scoot” feature.
In simple words, it means:
- The gun can change its position just 85 seconds after firing a shell.
- This leaves no opportunity for the enemy to counterattack effectively.
- It gives the Indian Army speed and safety during battle.
This technology will give the Indian Army advanced combat capabilities, enabling it to strike swiftly and relocate before the enemy can respond.
Made in India, for India
Another significant aspect of this Mounted Gun System is that 85% of it has been built using materials manufactured within India.
Earlier, India had to import such heavy artillery, which was expensive and often delayed.
Now, with DRDO and Indian companies like Bharat Forge Limited working together, this system has been made in India, with a price of around ₹15 crores per unit, which is 2-3 times cheaper than foreign guns.
This will:
- Create employment within India.
- Retain defence spending within the country.
- Strengthen the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Where and How Was the Mounted Gun System Tested?
DRDO tested this Mounted Gun System at Balasore in Odisha and Pokhran in Rajasthan.
In these tests, it fired over 100 shells and performed excellently each time.
Currently, the gun has been sent to Ahmednagar in Maharashtra for further testing, allowing Indian Army personnel to use and assess it under near-battlefield conditions.
How Many Guns Does the Indian Army Need?
The Indian Army requires around 700-800 Mounted Gun Systems. To fulfil this demand, DRDO plans to scale up production in collaboration with Indian companies.
Bharat Forge, Tata, and Adani Defence are in the race to manufacture this system at a large scale, which will strengthen India’s defence while creating new employment and industrial opportunities in the country.
Why Is This Gun Important for India?
In today’s world, with situations like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, strengthening our defence systems has become essential.
The Mounted Gun System provides India with this critical strength:
- Capability to strike swiftly.
- Ability to relocate immediately after firing.
- Range of 45 kilometres to hit targets.
- Advanced technology at a lower cost.
- Independence from foreign dependency.
It will enable the Indian Army to safeguard the nation’s borders and respond promptly during emergencies.
Public Reaction on Social Media
When DRDO unveiled this Mounted Gun System, people on social media hailed it as India’s new strength.
Mounted Gun System (155mm/52 Cal) from DRDO Official
People said:
“This gun will silence the enemy.”
“True power of Make in India.”
“Now, we can strengthen our army ourselves.”
There was immense pride in seeing that this gun is made in India and is cheaper than foreign alternatives, ensuring India’s money stays within the country.
Comparison with Other Indian Artillery
India has recently inducted artillery like the K9 Vajra-T and ATAGS, which are also powerful guns. However, the Mounted Gun System’s biggest advantages are its:
- Speed,
- Accuracy,
- and Cost-effectiveness.
It will provide the Indian Army with the strength required for modern warfare.
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Conclusion: A Symbol of Self-Reliance and Strength
The Mounted Gun System is not just a cannon; it is a symbol of India’s technological strength, self-reliance, and growing defence capabilities.
- It will strengthen our Army.
- It will eliminate the need for dependency on others for weapons.
- It will generate employment and develop technology within India.
- It will take India’s defence sector to new heights.
Every Indian should feel proud that we are now capable of building such advanced weapons ourselves, matching the best in the world.
Why is the Mounted Gun System important for India?
This system is important because it:
Strengthens India’s artillery capabilities.
Supports ‘Make in India’ by being 85% indigenous.
Reduces dependency on expensive foreign weapons.
Provides quick mobility with its “Shoot and Scoot” feature, helping the Indian Army strike and relocate swiftly during conflicts.
What is the range of the DRDO Mounted Gun System?
The DRDO Mounted Gun System can target positions up to 45 kilometres away, enabling the Indian Army to strike deep into enemy territory while staying at a safe distance.
What is the “Shoot and Scoot” feature in the Mounted Gun System?
The “Shoot and Scoot” feature allows the gun to fire shells and relocate within 85 seconds, preventing the enemy from easily counterattacking. This enhances the survival and effectiveness of the artillery crew during combat.
