Indian Air Force’s Chinook helicopters carrying howitzers
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The procurement is expected to equip around 15 regiments and marks a major step in strengthening domestic defence manufacturing.
However, the development comes at an interesting time. The decision follows closely on the controversy surrounding the quality of upgraded Sharang artillery guns. At the same time, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) continues its probe into the alleged Dhanush gun scandal, in which fake Chinese components were reportedly passed off as German imports.
The ongoing investigation has raised concerns over quality control and procurement processes within India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. The planned order underscores the Army’s continued push toward modernisation and self-reliance in artillery systems.
The expansion of the Dhanush fleet is expected to bolster operational readiness while reinforcing the broader “Make in India” initiative in the defence sector.
Published on March 3, 2026