Armenia Purchases 84 Additional Indian ATAGS Artillery Guns, Potential Acquisition Before Indian Army

Defense News ,India , Armenia :-  In the South Caucasus, tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia are on the rise, prompting both nations to strengthen their military capabilities. Armenia recently made headlines by reportedly placing an order for the cutting-edge Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) from India. This move comes as the Indian Army contemplates deploying these guns along its border with China, marking a crucial development in regional geopolitics.

The Indian Army plans to acquire 310 ATAGS, a collaborative effort between the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Bharat Forge Limited, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited. While the procurement is pending finalization, Armenia has shown a keen interest in these artillery guns, aiming to replace its outdated Soviet-era howitzers.

Armenia's earlier acquisition of the MArG 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzer from Kalyani Forge India and six ATAGS in 2023 underscores its commitment to modernizing its military capabilities. Now, with an additional order for 84 ATAGS at a cost of US $155 million, Armenia aims to enhance its high-mobility and rapid deployment capabilities.

The ATAGS, specifically designed for high-altitude operations, will replace obsolete Soviet-era howitzers, offering Armenia a strategic advantage in the region. The guns feature advanced communication and automatic command and control systems, making them ideal for Armenian forces. This procurement positions Armenia as the first export customer for the ATAGS, potentially opening doors for India to explore further defense export opportunities.

The Indian Army has rigorously tested the ATAGS in diverse terrains, including Pokhran, Balasore, and Sikkim, facing extreme temperatures from -15 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius. With a range of 50 kilometers, the 155/52 mm caliber towed gun can strike targets effectively. It boasts a rapid firing capability of five rounds in 60 seconds and a sustained rate of up to 60 rounds in 60 minutes.

While the field trials have concluded successfully, the finalization of the contract faces procedural delays. In a broader context, India has become a key defense exporter to Armenia, a fact highlighted by the Armenian intelligence's concern over Azerbaijan's alleged plans for a "full-scale war" armed with Turkish and Pakistani weapons.

Armenia's response strategy involves leveraging its newly acquired Indian and French weapon systems to counter potential threats. The nation has substantially increased its defense investments, reaching US $1.4 to 1.5 billion in 2024, with Indian defense contracts alone amounting to a billion dollars.

The ongoing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia escalated in September 2023 when Azerbaijan recaptured the Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh in a surprise military action. The territory is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, but long-standing conflicts persist due to Armenian administration and a majority Armenian population in Nagorno-Karabakh, which declared independence.

To bolster its defenses, Armenia has already deployed Indian-made Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launch System (MBRLS) and an anti-drone system. The Pinaka, considered equivalent to the American HIMARS, offers a range of 38 kilometers, quick reaction time, and a high rate of fire. The system was delivered to Armenia via Iran in 2023, sparking tensions with Azerbaijan.

The Pinaka Mk-1 is designed as a replacement for the Russian GRAD BM-21, also present in the Armenian armed forces. Concerns over Azerbaijan deploying an increased number of drones, including suicide drones, influenced Armenia's decision to opt for the Pinaka system.

Armenia has further fortified its defenses by acquiring the Indian-built surface-to-air missile (SAM) Akash. Manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), the Akash Weapon System (AWS) provides short-range SAM capabilities to protect vulnerable areas and points from air attacks. Capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously, the Akash system adds a crucial layer to Armenia's air defense strategy.

As regional tensions persist, Armenia's strategic defense partnerships with India play a pivotal role in shaping the balance of power in the South Caucasus. The ongoing arms race and military modernization efforts underscore the delicate nature of the current geopolitical landscape, with nations prioritizing defense preparedness in the face of potential conflicts.