Indian Army Expects Full Delivery of 114 Dhanush Artillery Guns by 2026

New Delhi, 25 Sep, (VNI) The Indian Army, having already operationalized one regiment equipped with the state-of-the-art Dhanush artillery guns, is anticipating the receipt of the remaining 114 guns by the year 2026, as confirmed by authoritative defence sources.

The Dhanush, a 155 mm, 45-caliber towed artillery gun, boasts an impressive range of 36 km, demonstrating even greater reach at 38 km with specialized ammunition. An upgrade from the existing 155 mm, 39-caliber Bofors FH 77 gun, the Dhanush received official service approval in 2019 and has since been effectively integrated into the Indian Army's artillery arsenal.

One of the key features of the Dhanush is its remarkable indigenous content of 81%, ensuring ease of maintenance and accessibility to spare parts. This, coupled with its all-terrain autonomous capability, allows for versatile deployment in various operational environments.
Furthermore, the Dhanush exhibits precise targeting capabilities at extended ranges, bolstered by a wide selection of compatible ammunition and charge systems. Its burst and intense rate of fire, along with shoot-and-scoot capabilities, enhance its tactical agility on the battlefield.

A highlight of the Dhanush's advanced functionalities includes its incorporation of the 'Advanced Gun Sighting System (AGSS)' and the 'Arty Gun Aiming and Positioning System' (AGAPS), ensuring precise orientation and fixation through a GPS-aided inertial navigation system. Muzzle velocity data management further guarantees accurate target engagement.

Moreover, the Dhanush seamlessly interfaces with the Arty Command Control & Communication System (ACCCS), enhancing its compatibility and integration within broader artillery operations.

In addition to the acquisition of the Dhanush guns, the Indian Army is directing its focus towards augmenting the range of the Pinaka Multi-Rocket Launch Systems (MRLS), a development actively pursued by the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO). The Pralay surface-to-surface quasi-ballistic missile is also in advanced stages of induction, signalling a significant stride in India's military capabilities.

With these advancements, the Indian Army is poised to bolster its artillery capabilities, fortifying its position on the global stage and ensuring the nation's security and defense interests are met with unwavering strength and precision.