Bolstering Indian Artillery: New missiles and advanced systems set to transform defence capabilities

The Indian Army is set to strengthen its artillery capabilities with the development and induction of new guns and hypersonic missile systems. This modernization effort will not only enhance India’s defence against potential threats but also place the country among the few global players capable of deploying cutting-edge hypersonic technology.

Hypersonic Missile in the Pipeline

India is actively working on developing its own hypersonic missile, separate from the existing BrahMos missile program. According to Lieutenant General Adosh Kumar, Director General of Artillery, the missile is currently in the research and development (R&D) stage under the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). Though details remain classified due to the sensitivity of the project, Lt Gen Kumar assured that the hypersonic missile will soon be part of the Indian Army’s artillery. “This missile is distinct from the supersonic BrahMos missile currently in use,” he noted.

While India is also working on a hypersonic version of the BrahMos missile, the upcoming system is expected to complement the BrahMos-2, a hypersonic cruise missile powered by a scramjet engine. Once operational, India will have two types of hypersonic missiles at its disposal: one designed for the Army’s artillery and the other for advanced cruise missile operations. Both systems would offer India a significant tactical edge, as hypersonic missiles travel at speeds of Mach 5 and above, rendering traditional missile defence systems less effective.

Artillery Modernization: Advanced Guns and Missiles

The modernization of India’s artillery is not limited to hypersonic missiles. The Indian Army is in the process of inducting additional gun systems and enhancing its missile capabilities. At a special briefing on the eve of the Indian Army’s 198th Artillery Day, he highlighted the Army’s continued acquisition of 155-mm caliber gun systems such as the Dhanush, K-9 Vajra, and the American-made M777 ultra-light howitzers. “A number of 155-mm caliber gun systems including K-9 Vajra self-propelled gun system, Dhanush, ultra-light howitzer (ULH), and Sarang. And, more regiments of K9, Dhanush, and Sarang will be inducted soon,” he stated.

The Dhanush, an indigenous howitzer system, along with the South Korean K-9 Vajra and American M777, play key roles in India’s artillery operations, especially in challenging terrains along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. These acquisitions mark India’s commitment to boosting the operational readiness of its artillery in both conventional and high-altitude environments.

The Role of Rocket Systems

The Indian Army’s artillery also boasts formidable rocket systems, notably the indigenous Pinaka rocket launcher. Over the years, the range and precision of the Pinaka system have been significantly upgraded. As Lt Gen Kumar explained, the Army is exploring further improvements in the range and ammunition of the Pinaka system, with potential ranges extending to 120 km, 300 km, and beyond.

In addition to the Pinaka system, the artillery operates the land-based version of the BrahMos missile. The BrahMos, one of the most versatile missiles in the Indian arsenal, continues to be a cornerstone of India’s artillery firepower. With the introduction of new systems like the Nirbhay subsonic cruise missile and the Pralay short-range ballistic missile, the Indian Army’s artillery is set to become even more formidable. Both of these missiles, still under development by the DRDO, are expected to enhance India’s ability to respond rapidly to regional threats.

A Push for Mediumization

As part of the broader artillery modernization effort, India is advancing its plan to “mediumize” its artillery. This initiative involves transitioning the entire artillery force to medium 155-mm gun systems by 2042. “We have a clear roadmap for where we aim to be in 2027 and a more extensive plan leading up to 2042,” said Lt Gen Kumar. He expressed confidence that the Indian Army would meet its targets for the mediumization of artillery, acknowledging the evolving defence landscape and technological advancements driving these changes.

Moreover, the Arty DG highlighted the ongoing trials for advanced towed artillery gun systems (ATAGS) and mounted gun systems (MGS). “Contracts for the ATAGS are expected to inked soon as the trials are over. And by 2025, trials for other gun systems should be completed, ” he added. This commitment to upgrading artillery assets underscores India’s focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign imports.

Strategic Implications

The recent developments in India’s artillery modernization, particularly the focus on hypersonic missile technology, align with global trends in defence capabilities. Hypersonic missiles, with their unmatched speed and precision, are becoming increasingly important in modern warfare. Russia, for example, has already deployed its Kinzhal hypersonic missile during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Similarly, the recent claim by Yemen’s Houthi rebels of using a hypersonic missile to attack Tel Aviv highlights the growing prominence of this technology in global military strategies.

By enhancing its missile and artillery systems, India is not only preparing to meet future threats but is also positioning itself as a key player in the global arms race. The ability to deploy hypersonic missiles will significantly strengthen India’s deterrence capabilities, particularly in the context of its strategic competition with China and Pakistan.