Precision Artillery: Transforming Indian Army's Strategic Capabilities
Indian Army's artillery modernization emphasizes precision, speed, and integration with other forces.
Photo by Sakarie Mustafe Hidig
Operation Sindoor highlights the evolution of the Indian Army's artillery, transforming it into a strategic enabler. The Regiment of Artillery's use of precision-guided Excalibur rounds and loitering munitions against terrorist infrastructure demonstrates a focus on accuracy and controlled escalation. Artillery operations were tightly integrated with airpower, UAV-based surveillance, and real-time intelligence.
This approach allowed India to deliver decisive effects without sustained air presence. Along the Line of Control, artillery units played a stabilizing role through effective counter-battery fire. Operation Sindoor offers a template for future counter-terror operations.
Key Facts
Operation Sindoor: Artillery as strategic enabler
Excalibur rounds: Precision-guided
Integrated with airpower and UAVs
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper 3: Security challenges and their management in border areas
GS Paper 3: Indigenization of technology and developing new technology
Potential for questions on defense modernization and strategic capabilities
Visual Insights
Operation Sindoor: Areas of Operation and Strategic Importance
This map highlights the Line of Control (LoC) and areas where Operation Sindoor was conducted, showcasing the strategic importance of precision artillery in counter-terrorism operations.
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More Information
Background
The evolution of artillery in India dates back to the Mughal era, with the introduction of gunpowder and cannons. However, a structured artillery regiment emerged during British rule, primarily utilizing imported technology. Post-independence, India focused on indigenous production and diversification of its artillery arsenal.
Key milestones include the development of the 105mm Indian Field Gun, the acquisition of Bofors guns in the 1980s, and the subsequent push for self-reliance through programs like the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). The Kargil War highlighted the critical role of artillery in high-altitude warfare, leading to further modernization and precision capabilities. The integration of technology, such as UAVs for surveillance and precision-guided munitions, marks a significant shift towards a more strategic and effective artillery force.
Latest Developments
Recent developments in Indian artillery focus on enhancing precision, range, and mobility. The acquisition of M777 ultra-light howitzers and K9 Vajra-T self-propelled artillery systems has significantly improved the army's firepower and deployment capabilities. The focus is also on integrating indigenous technologies, such as advanced fire control systems and ammunition, to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is actively involved in developing advanced artillery systems and ammunition. Future trends include the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) for target acquisition and fire control, as well as the development of longer-range and more precise loitering munitions. The emphasis is on creating a technologically superior and self-reliant artillery force capable of addressing future security challenges.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS): 1. It is a fully imported artillery system developed in collaboration with a foreign country. 2. It is designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). 3. It is capable of firing precision-guided munitions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect because ATAGS is indigenously developed. Statements 2 and 3 are correct as ATAGS is designed by DRDO and can fire precision-guided munitions.
2. In the context of modern artillery systems, what is the primary advantage of using loitering munitions?
- A.Increased range compared to traditional artillery shells
- B.Ability to engage targets beyond the line of sight with enhanced precision
- C.Lower cost per round compared to precision-guided munitions
- D.Higher rate of fire compared to conventional artillery
Show Answer
Answer: B
Loitering munitions can engage targets beyond the line of sight with enhanced precision due to their ability to loiter over the battlefield and select targets.
3. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the role of artillery in counter-insurgency operations?
- A.Artillery provides long-range fire support to ground troops.
- B.Artillery is primarily used for indiscriminate shelling of suspected insurgent hideouts.
- C.Artillery can be used for precision strikes against specific targets.
- D.Artillery can provide counter-battery fire to neutralize enemy artillery positions.
Show Answer
Answer: B
Artillery is not primarily used for indiscriminate shelling. Modern artillery emphasizes precision strikes to minimize collateral damage.