To that end, VRDE undertook a technology demonstrator project to design and develop a 155mm/52 calibre MGS based on ATAGS. The gun has been adapted onto an 8×8 cross-country wheeled vehicle with stabilisers and supporting interface structures.The project has introduced state-of-the-art technologies in carrier vehicles, stabilisers, armoured cabins, ammunition handling cranes, on-board power systems, and integrated compact electronic controllers.The MGS offers high mobility, including gradient, side-slope, trench-crossing and cross-country capabilities, and can operate in both desert and mountainous terrain.This system can be rapidly deployed with mechanised forces, destroy enemy targets, and move before facing retaliatory fire.Both ATAGS and MGS have over 80% indigenous content. “Except for the auto gun alignment and positioning system, muzzle velocity radar, and some types of batteries, everything else is indigenous,” said an official.The ATAGS can be deployed in 90 seconds to fire its first shell, while the MGS can do so in 80 seconds.Army requirements are expected to grow. G. Ramamohana Rao, Director of VRDE, said, “Initially, the Army needs 300 such guns, but the total requirement may rise to 700.”With the modern systems now ready for induction, DRDO has begun working on indigenising remaining components and developing advanced ammunition. This includes shells fitted with ramjets and inertial guidance systems to improve range and precision
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