Army chief inspects artillery guns trial

Jaisalmer, May 31 (UNI) Army Chief Gen J J Singh was today today present at the trial of the two versions of 155 mm calibre howitzers being considered for acquisition by the army to increase its firepower.

The Army is contemplating to buy long range and medium range guns of 155 mm calibre howitzer, and Sweden's Bofors, Israel's Soltam and South African Denel were the three firms vying for the order. However, no decision had been made despite four rounds of tests already being held. Meanwhile, Denel had been blacklisted after allegations surfaced that it had indulged in corrupt practices to win an Indian army order, leaving Bofors and Soltam as the only contenders.

The guns were supposed to go summer trials in the desert terrain of Rajasthan and winter trials in Ladakh to assess their suitability for Indian conditions before a final decision was taken.

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