New Delhi, March 20 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi led cabinet committee on security on Wednesday cleared the around Rs 7,000 crore deal to acquire advanced towed artillery gun systems (ATAGS).

The deal is being seen as a significant step in the defense corridors, as it is one of the most important developments in India's efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities under Modi's vision for a self-reliant defense industry, as part of the 'Make in India' initiative.

The contract for 307 howitzers, which have a strike range up to 45-48-km, and 327 gun towing vehicles to arm 15 artillery regiments of the Army, is expected to be inked next week, official sources said.

According to official sources, the ATAGS was developed through a colla...