India's defence major Bharat Forge, through its arm Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd (KSSL), announced a strategic partnership with US heavy vehicle manufacturer AM General on Thursday. The collaboration focuses on developing distinct mounted artillery gun systems for the global market.
The signing agreement took place at the Eurosatory defence exposition in Paris. AM General, with a global presence across over 70 countries, and KSSL aim to address modern armies' requirements in evolving combat scenarios. The partnership will equip forces with compact, robust, lightweight, ruggedized, mobile, all-weather, all-terrain next-generation mounted artillery gun (MArG) platforms, offering a distinct competitive edge.
According to a company statement, the partnership is intended to support broader allied distribution, positioning the platform as a scalable, exportable artillery solution for partner nations seeking modern, mobile, and survivable 155mm fire capability.
AM General has also proposed to participate in the US Army Mobile Tactical Cannon (MTC) program. The proposal includes developing and delivering a 155mm MTC solution based on KSSL's mature, combat-relevant mounted artillery gun platform, with delivery planned in 2027 upon down-selection.
The MArG system delivers class-leading strategic transportability and tactical mobility through a purpose-built powerpack and suspension, combined with a lighter gross vehicle weight rating. Its 52-caliber 155mm cannon features patented soft recoil technology, an automated load-assist system, and an advanced all-weather fire control suite providing both indirect and direct fire capabilities.
The system fires standard high-explosive projectiles over 40 km and carries over 20 projectiles and propellant charges on board. The MArG's soft recoil technology absorbs significantly more recoil force than traditional artillery systems, allowing for a lighter vehicle, lighter turret, and reduced shock on the entire weapons system over its lifespan.
Amit Kalyani, vice-chairman and joint MD of Bharat Forge, the parent company of KSSL, stated: "Our partnership with AM General is underscored by trust in our advanced artillery capabilities and confidence in our commitment to delivering leading-edge and combat-proven solutions that meet modern warfare requirements."
John Chadbourne, AM General president and CEO, added: "Working with KSSL signifies our mutual commitment to support our allies and, ultimately, the Warfighter. By integrating patented soft recoil technology into their state-of-the-art and mature platforms, we will deliver truly groundbreaking capabilities that can provide an advantage on the evolving battlefield."
