Indian Firm Teams With AM General, Mandus to Explore Next-Gen Artillery
India’s Kalyani Strategic Systems has signed an agreement with American firms AM General and Mandus Group to explore the co-development and production of next-generation artillery systems.
The initiative aims to meet the growing demand for modern, lightweight artillery, driven by evolving battlefield scenarios in the wake of the Ukraine war.
The 105mm and 155mm caliber guns will feature enhanced firepower, precision strike capabilities, tactical mobility, and command and control integration.
These systems will be compact, robust, rugged, lightweight, and designed to operate in all-weather and all-terrain conditions.
Kalyani Systems
Kalyani Strategic Systems is the defense division of Bharat Forge, focusing on areas such as artillery, protected vehicles, armored vehicle upgrades, ammunition, missiles, and air defense solutions.
It currently produces the 155mm Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System and plans to expand into the production of lightweight mounted guns for mountainous terrains.
“Bharat Forge is rapidly emerging as a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced artillery platforms for the world markets,” Bharat Forge chairman and managing director Baba Kalyani said.
“This strategic collaboration aims to co-develop and co-produce the most versatile and innovative weapon systems.”
Soft-Recoil Technology
AM General and its partner Mandus Group are leaders in the artillery solutions market.
One of their experimental 105mm howitzers was sent to Ukraine for combat trials in June.
The key feature of the Humvee-mounted system is its soft-recoil technology, which allows the relatively small vehicle to absorb the cannon’s recoil shock.
“AM General and Mandus Group are looking forward to exploring this collaboration with Kalyani and Bharat Forge to ultimately deliver advanced mobile artillery capabilities,” AM General executive vice president for Business Development John Chadbourne said.
“A partnership like this is a testament to our company’s commitment to be responsive and dynamic as the battlefield evolves.”
