Armenia Reportedly Orders a Second Large Batch of 84 ATAGS for $155 Million from India

Armenia has reportedly recently finalized an agreement to acquire 84 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) from India, investing a total of $155 million. This significant defense deal highlights India's growing influence as a major global arms supplier, as reported by Army Recognition.

The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a collaborative project between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private sector entities, represents a leap forward in artillery technology. The 155mm/52-caliber towed artillery boasts impressive specifications, including a horizontal angle ranging from minus 20 to 25 degrees and a vertical one from minus 3 to 70 degrees. Capable of reaching targets at a maximum firing range of 48 km and firing three times in 15 seconds, the ATAGS is well-suited for high-altitude use, making it an ideal choice for Armenia's specific environment.

Armenia's decision to procure the ATAGS comes amid heightened regional tensions, with the country aiming to modernize its armed forces in response to ongoing security threats from its neighbor, particularly the conflict with Azerbaijan over the Azerbaijani occupation of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh).

The addition of the ATAGS to Armenia's arsenal is a pivotal step in enhancing both defensive and offensive operations, providing a substantial upgrade to existing artillery capabilities. In 2023, Armenia acquired six ATAGS and signed additional contracts with Indian firms for MArG 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzers and the Akash air defense system.