After three decades of Bofors guns, two M-777 howitzers cannons were received by the Indian Army in the third week of May, with a view to upgrade the artillery. The cannons are now undergoing tests in Pokharan firing range where the firing tests would continue for approximately two months.
The firing tests are being conducted under the supervision of Indian Army officials and an American team. “The American team is for weapon support. Since the howitzer has been made by a foreign company, the team has come here with the cannon to provide training to personnel and also support them during the tests” sources informed.
Notably, the team is training and studying the data recovered during tests. “What is seen during tests is the weapon system’s performance in harsh weather conditions. Another aspect that is being looked into is the performance of the weapon system and that of the Indian origin ammunition as well.
Indian make ammunition is being fired so that in any eventuality we have a weapon that is flexible in operating in any condition. This would save the Army from depending on foreign suppliers of ammunition,” sources informed.
Interestingly, the personnel are also being trained about the ground from which to fire the cannon. “It is an important aspect that the ground should be suitable. If the earth is loose or too hard, the recoil of the cannon could be dangerous to the personnel standing near it.
Also this could sometime result in accuracy as well as the gun would sustain a heavy jolt due to recoil. Moreover, the angle and elevation suitable for each type of ammunition for maximum impact is also being tested” sources informed, adding further, “the data of these tests would reveal its performance in our conditions and also how the weapon can be used during times of emergency.”
AMERICAN SUPPORT
The firing tests are being conducted under the supervision of Indian Army officials and an American team. According to sources, American team is for weapon support. It is here to provide training to personnel and support them during the tests.
