Question : MODERNISATION OF ARTILLERY

(a) whether the Government proposes to modernise the artillery wing of the army;

(b) if so, the details thereof, including the short-term and long-term plans in this regard;

(c) the types and number of guns and other weapons proposed to be inducted in the artillery and the countries from which tenders have been invited;

(d) whether the indigenously developed artillery combat and control system is also to be inducted as part of upgradation;

(e) if so, the details thereof; and

(f) the total funds allocated for the modernisation programme?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)

(a) to (f): Modernisation of Artillery is an ongoing process. While a number of weapons and equipment have already been inducted; procurement process for other weapons is underway. The procurements are made as per the provisions of Defence Procurement Procedure 2008. Funds are placed at the disposal of the Services who spend them with the approval of Competent Financial Authority for procuring such items as per their requirements.