As the Artillery regiment of the Army prepares to commemorate its 198th anniversary on September 28, it serves as a critical component of India’s defense, spearheading the process of military modernization. The artillery’s critical role in national defense, from pre-independence battles to the Kargil War, was underscored by Lieutenant General Adosh Kumar, Director General of Artillery. He also provided a vision for a technologically advanced and combat-ready force in the future.
The standardization of the 155mm artillery gun and the integration of advanced systems, including Ultra-Light Howitzers, K9 Vajra, and Sharang guns, are among the most significant modernization efforts. Furthermore, the artillery is enhancing its capabilities by expanding its Surveillance and Target Acquisition (SATA) regiments, which are equipped with advanced sensors, UAVs, and modern radars to facilitate precise targeting.
Lt. Gen. Kumar emphasized the revolutionary nature of battlefield operations, which are being revolutionized by the introduction of new technologies such as Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), swarm drones, and loitering munitions. The artillery’s evolving firepower is further emphasized by the upcoming Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) and advancements in rocket systems, such as the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher.
“We are expanding the strength of RPAs and swarm drone technology to make our artillery units not just a ‘Arm of Influence’ but a fully capable, combat-ready force,” said Lieutenant General Kumar.
The Indian Artillery is on the brink of establishing itself as a “Arm of Decision” as it approaches its bicentennial anniversary. This designation will be achieved through the implementation of gender-inclusive reforms, enhanced operational autonomy, and state-of-the-art technology, which will enable the organization to shape the future of warfare.
