Indian Army's mega Rs. 40,000cr modern weapon procurement plan finalized
Indian Army has finalized a Rs. 40,000cr infantry modernization plan to procure new weapons to replace its aging, obsolete ones. Defense Ministry also approved the plan, under which Army would acquire 7 lakh rifles, 44,000 light machine guns, and 44,600 carbines. Considering the security threats to India along the Pakistan and China borders, Army has been pressing for the procurement of various weapons.
Army to initially procure 10,000 LMGs
The Centre directed the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to accelerate its work on different small arms, especially the light machine guns (LMGs). Defense Ministry would also issue a new RFI (request for information) for procuring the LMGs, months after canceling a tender for 7.62mm caliber guns as there was only one vendor left after a series of field trials.
Army finalizes specifications for new 7.62mm assault rifle
The specifications for the new 7.62mm assault rifle have been finalized by Army. An official said: "The General Service Quality Requirements for the new assault rifle has been finalized. The procurement plan will soon be placed before the DAC (Defence Acquisition Council) for approval."
Indian Army requires nearly 7 lakh rifles
Earlier in June, an assault rifle made by the state-run Ishapore Rifle Factory was rejected by the Indian Army after the guns failed during the firing tests. Army has been witnessing a series of delays in procuring assault rifles owing to various reasons including the Army's failure to finalize the specifications. It needs around 7-lakh 7.62x51mm assault guns for replacing INSAS rifles.
Army ensures single vendor problem doesn't recur
Indian Army initiated the process for procuring nearly 44,600 carbines in June, about eight months after retracting a tender as a single vendor was left after field trials. To ensure that the single-vendor situation doesn't arise again, Army has tweaked various specifications for the LMGs and battle carbines. Around six arms manufacturers, including some international firms, have responded to the government's RFI.
Defense Secretary calls a meeting
An official stated the combined cost of assault rifles, carbines, and LMGs would be in excess of Rs. 40,000cr. Also, he added the Defense Secretary is holding a meeting with all stakeholders to discuss on the DRDO missing several deadlines in finalizing the LMG.
Infantry modernization plan, Army's major initiative
A senior army official said the infantry modernization program would "significantly bolster the overall capability of the foot soldiers." It was discussed at the recent Army Commanders conference; it was felt Army must be "in tune" with the evolving security threats facing India. Saying that Army's deficiencies would be addressed, Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman added its modernization is a priority for the government.
