Catapult Mk-II 130mm tracked self-propelled howitzer based on Arjun Mk-I tank unveiled Defexpo 10021.

The first version of the Catapult howitzer was based on the Vijayanta MBT chassis. The Vijayanta main battle tank was built in India based on a licensed design of the British main battle tank Vickers Mk.1.

The latest information available indicates that a total of 170 Catapult Mk I systems were built of which 100 are in service with the Indian army and the remainder are in reserve. The latest variant is fitted with a horizontal shield over the gun and crew compartments to provide protection against top attack weapons.

According to DRDO sources, the first trial tests of the Catapult Mk-II were performed in 2012. The Indian Army plans to perform other tests in March-April 2014 with military personnel and engineers of DRDO. If these trial tests are successful, the Indian army could purchase a total of 40 Catapult Mk-II to equip tow artillery regiments.

Designed by integrating the 130 mm M-46 Gun with the Arjun MBT chassis, the Arjun Catapult will fulfill the immediate requirements of Self Propelled (SP) Artillery of the Indian Army for employment in mechanized operations. The technological worth of the equipment stems from the proven Arjun MBT Chassis and Automotive System as well as the time-tested gunnery merits of the 130 mm M-46 Gun. It thereby translates into a highly reliable hybrid SP gun system that offers enormous firepower potency coupled with excellent mobility characteristics while maintaining substantial levels of protection.