New Delhi: India has historically relied on countries like Russia and Israel for advanced rifles and sniper systems. However, that’s changing quickly. With the “Make-in-India” and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, the country is moving towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing. At the India International Trade Fair (IITF) in New Delhi, the state-run Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) showcased its impressive lineup of indigenous weapons, signifying a shift in the country’s defense strategy.
Sumit Raha, AWEIL’s Marketing Manager, shared how India’s heavy reliance on foreign arms is shifting. “These weapons used to come at steep prices. Now, we’re producing them locally with comparable technology and firepower,” he explained. A sniping rifle that can hit targets up to 1,200 meters is in the testing phase and will soon be available for use, boosting both police and military capabilities.
Raha emphasized that this effort is more than production; it’s about achieving strategic self-reliance. The weapons displayed at IITF underline India’s ability to match global standards in defense manufacturing.
Highlighting Key Weapons:
1. 8.6×70 mm Sniper Rifle
- Caliber: 0.338
- Operation: Direct lug locking
- Weight: Under 9 kg with scope and bipod
- Range: 1,200 meters
- Magazine capacity: 5 rounds
This rifle addresses India’s need for a domestic long-range precision option, fulfilling an essential gap.
2. Trichy Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62×39 mm
- Operation: Gas-operated
- Weight: 3.63 kg
- Range: 300 meters
For many years, the Indian military depended on the AK series. The Trichy Assault Rifle now serves as a robust, cost-effective alternative.
3. Ishapore Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62×51 mm
- Weight: 3.74 kg
- Range: 500 meters
This rifle enables India to move away from reliance on foreign suppliers for 7.62 mm weapons.
Current Landscape:
India’s arms importation has decreased significantly. In a recent report, defense imports dropped by 33% between 2019 and 2021. This shift reflects a broader trend towards self-sufficiency in military technology.
With India’s ambitions to become a global defense exporter, the country is on a path to not just equip its forces but also to engage in international defense markets. This enhances national security while driving economic growth through innovation and technological advancement.
Overall, India’s strides towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing mark a new chapter in its military history and aim to secure a better future for its armed forces.
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