Marking a milestone in defense self-reliance, India's indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns performed the ceremonial 21-gun salute this Independence Day. These guns, battle-tested in 'Operation Sindoor', represent the new era of Indian artillery.
Key Takeaways
- Indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns (LFG) performed the 21-gun salute on Independence Day.
- The guns proved their mettle during 'Operation Sindoor' against terror camps in PoK.
- A special battery of 8 guns fired 21 rounds in just 52 seconds with precision.
- The ceremonial use marks the replacement of colonial-era 25-pounder guns with homegrown technology.
New Delhi: As India celebrated its Independence Day, the skies resonated with the thunder of sovereignty. For the first time in a significant ceremonial shift, the traditional 21-gun salute was delivered by indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns (LFG), replacing the colonial-era British 25-pounder guns. This move underscores India's massive strides in defense manufacturing and strategic autonomy.
These artillery pieces are not just ceremonial tools; they are battle-hardened warriors. During 'Operation Sindoor' in May 2025—a retaliatory strike following the Pahalgam terror attack—these guns played a pivotal role in neutralizing terrorist camps located across the border in Pakistan and PoK. Their precision and reliability during that four-day conflict have now made them symbols of national pride.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this transition from imported or legacy systems to indigenous hardware is a critical component of India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) mission. By integrating locally manufactured artillery into high-profile national ceremonies, the Indian government is signaling to the world that its defense supply chain is robust, reliable, and increasingly independent of foreign influence.
The deployment of indigenous artillery in national ceremonies signifies a psychological shift from being a major importer to a confident manufacturer of advanced weaponry.
Technical Specifications of the 105mm LFG
Developed by the Ordnance Factory Board, the 105mm LFG is an upgraded, highly mobile version of older artillery models. Key technical details include:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Effective Range | 17.2 Kilometers |
| Rate of Fire | 6 Rounds per minute |
| Weight Advantage | Approximately 1000kg lighter than older versions |
| Primary Use | Mobile field artillery and ceremonial duties |
During the ceremony, a specialized 'Ceremonial Battery' consisting of 8 guns achieved perfect synchronization, firing exactly 21 rounds within 52 seconds, timed perfectly with the playing of the National Anthem.
Historical Background
The tradition of the 21-gun salute is one of the highest military honors reserved for significant national occasions. For decades, India relied on legacy equipment from the British era for these ceremonies. The complete transition to the 105mm LFG marks the end of a colonial chapter and the beginning of a modern, self-reliant Indian military era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What was Operation Sindoor?
A: It was a successful military operation conducted in May 2025 to strike terror camps in PoK and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack.
Q2: How much range does the 105mm LFG have?
A: The indigenous 105mm Light Field Gun has a firing range of 17.2 kilometers.
