The Indian Army has initiated the raising of its third regiment equipped with the indigenously developed Dhanush artillery guns, marking another step forward in bolstering self-reliance in defence manufacturing. However, sources indicate that the complete induction of all 114 planned guns into six regiments may not be achieved by the initial target of March 2026 due to ongoing delivery delays.
The first Dhanush gun was inducted in April 2019, but only two regiments have become fully operational since then. Defence officials noted that while the second regiment has completed raising, the third has only begun receiving its initial systems. One regiment comprises 18 artillery guns, with each unit costing approximately ₹14 crore.
Dhanush is India’s first long-range artillery gun developed and manufactured entirely within the country by Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL), formerly part of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). With over 80% indigenous content—expected to rise to 90%—the system eases logistical support and spare parts availability, a key consideration for long-term operational efficiency.
An upgraded successor to the older Bofors 155mm 39-calibre guns, Dhanush features a 155mm 45-calibre barrel capable of firing up to 36 kilometres—approximately 6 km more than its predecessor. It is equipped with advanced targeting systems, allowing for greater precision, all-weather operation, and deployment across rugged terrain.
Currently, several Dhanush guns have already been deployed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, where enhanced firepower and operational flexibility are crucial. The project is seen as a cornerstone in India’s quest to develop a robust indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
