KNDS, SMPP to Pitch KATANA PG Shells to India

KATANA 155mm fire and forget, precision-guided artillery ammunition | Image: KNDS

SMPP has entered into a teaming agreement with KNDS for the KATANA family of precision-guided artillery ammunition, the companies announced at the Milipol exhibition in Paris. The agreement, signed on November 20, 2025, was concluded through SMPP’s subsidiary, SMPP Ammunition.

The KATANA is a 155mm precision-guided munition designed to provide accuracy and extended range for artillery systems. The product family includes the KATANA Ballistic Range (BR), Extended Range (ER) and High Precision (HP) variants. The HP version incorporates laser seeker technology. According to the companies, the KATANA system uses a hybrid guidance mechanism combining a multi-constellation GNSS receiver with an Inertial Measurement Unit to maintain guidance across various terrains. A future variant is expected to add a semi-active laser seeker for “metric-level precision,” and the system also includes a fire-and-forget capability.

Under the agreement, SMPP and KNDS plan to offer the KATANA family to the Indian Army under the Make in India framework. The companies said the arrangement aims to address the Indian Armed Forces’ requirement for advanced 155mm artillery ammunition. The tie-up comes as the Army continues to pursue new artillery systems and associated munitions.

SMPP, founded in 1985, manufactures products including personnel protection gear, platform armouring, and medium and large calibre ammunition. The company is headquartered in New Delhi and operates facilities in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.

KNDS Ammo France is part of the KNDS Group, a European defence manufacturer that develops manned and unmanned systems, mission solutions, and related ammunition.