Indian Royalties FH77B

In response to the interpellation of Deputies, Indian Defence Minister AK Antony has revealed that plants Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), assemble prototypes licensing FH77B Bofors howitzers.

Purchased in Sweden howitzers proved to be very effective in fighting in the mountainous areas of Kashmir. Unfortunately, due to wear, an increasing number of guns in need of repair or replacement


Pursuant to the agreement of 1986, the Swedish Bofors delivered 410 heavy howitzers towed FH77B caliber 155 mm, with a barrel length of 39 calibres. The option agreement stipulated the possibility of licensing production in India of another thousand guns with ammunition. It was not used for many years.

In response to the interpellation of Deputies, the defense minister has revealed, however, that in October last year the military orders issued a decision that allows plants to undertake the production howitzers OFB, using the licensing provisions of the agreement before a quarter century.


OFB carry out the order of the Ministry of Defence, concerning the production of two prototypes with a barrel length of 39 calibres, and another pair from the barrel lengthened to 45 calibers. In parallel, work is underway to modernize their present department, which involves changes in electronic systems, and installing longer barrels.

OFB has until the end of this year, directing two short prototypes for military testing. It works with a barrel length of 45 calibres should join them no later than June 2013.