Armenia orders 84 additional ATAGS artillery systems from India
Designed to meet the current requirements of ground forces, the ATAGS has a maximum firing range of 48 km and can fire up to three rounds within 15 seconds (Photo via Tata Advanced Systems)
Armenia has confirmed the purchase of 84 additional Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) of 155 mm/52 caliber from India. This purchase is part of Armenia’s broader military modernization efforts, which have intensified.
In 2023, Armenia acquired six units of the same artillery system from India, which reportedly ‘completed’ operational tests across various locations in the country.
Key features of the ATAGS system
Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with private Indian companies, the ATAGS system is a significant advancement in modern artillery technology.
With a maximum firing range of 48 kilometers (29.8 miles) and the ability to fire up to three rounds in 15 seconds, the system is well-suited to meet the needs of modern ground forces.
The ATAGS system is particularly effective at high altitudes, a feature that aligns with the unique geographical and operational requirements of Armenia.
In response to Armenian military requests, the system has been further customized, including modifications to its language interface and specific operational adjustments to enhance its suitability for regional defense.
Armenia’s defense enhancement
This acquisition comes at a critical time as Armenia faces ongoing security challenges, particularly in the context of its tensions with Azerbaijan over the Karabakh region. The purchase of these 84 additional ATAGS units is expected to significantly bolster Armenia’s artillery capabilities.
Armenia has also signed additional defense agreements with Indian firms, including deals for MArG 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzers and the Akash air defense system.
Moreover, Armenia has expressed interest in procuring K2 tanks from South Korea as part of its broader defense modernization strategy.
Armenia’s recent orders from India
In September 2022, Yerevan placed an order in India for Pinaka multiple-launch rocket systems, anti-tank missiles and ammunition valued at approximately $245 million.
Additionally, four Swathi mobile radar systems, totaling $40 million, were included in the procurement.
In 2022, Armenia also ordered 90 advanced towed artillery systems (ATAGS) worth $155.5 million from India, with the first batch of six 155-millimeter towed howitzers delivered in August 2023.
Military cooperation between Armenia and India
Armenia has become India’s largest arms buyer for the 2024-2025 period.
According to a report published on Indian Aerospace Defence News’s X page and based on the Indian Ministry of Defense, Armenia has placed a $600 million order for weapons for 2024-2025, making it India’s top arms importer.
According to data from the Indian Ministry of Defense, Armenia’s total purchases of Indian-made weapons for the 2024-2025 fiscal year amount to $600 million.
Azerbaijan warns countries against supplying arms to Armenia
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev issued a stern warning to nations providing arms to Armenia, particularly France, stating that those who arm Armenia will bear direct responsibility for future consequences.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the seventh term of Azerbaijan’s National Assembly, Aliyev emphasized the increased combat readiness of the Azerbaijani military and the country’s enhanced defense capabilities.
Aliyev expressed concerns about Armenia’s recent acquisition of free weapons from France, calling the situation “very serious.” He warned that those arming Armenia are directly responsible for any future developments in the region.
“Countries arming Armenia should be aware that they will be held directly responsible for the outcomes,” Aliyev stated, stressing that Azerbaijan is prepared to respond to any provocation.
