India: Modernisation of Artillery

14 August 2012 Pacific Sentinel

The modernization of Artillery is being undertaken on a continuous basis. The following equipment has been inducted / upgraded into the Artillery:-

(i)   Pinaka Rocket System;

(ii)  Smerch Rocket System.

(iii)  BrahMos Missile System.

(iv)  Upgradation of 130mm gun to 155mm /145 calibre.

Procurement action is ongoing for the following gun systems:

(i)   155mm / 39 calibreUltra Light Howitzer.

(ii)  155/45Calibre Gun from Ordnance Factory Board (OFB).

(iii) 155mm / 52 calibre Towed Gun.

(iv) 155mm / 52 calibre Tracked (Self Propelled) Gun.

(v)  155mm / 52 calibre Mounted Gun System.

Acquisition of weapons and equipment for Armed forces is a complex activity and is carried out in accordance with the provisions of Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP). The procurement cycle takes about 2-3 years for finalization of contracts, but can vary depending on the complexity of the issues involved.

This information was given by Minister of Defence Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Dr.Ratna De (Nag) in Lok Sabha today.

Indian Press Information Bureau