New Delhi, In a recent development, the Defence Ministry has given the green light to the Army’s proposal to import an additional 73,000 SiG Sauer assault rifles from the United States. This decision comes as a response to the ongoing delays in the production of Russian AK-203 Kalashnikov rifles within India.
The approval, granted by the Defence Acquisitions Council led by Rajnath Singh, entails the procurement of SiG-716 ‘Patrol’ rifles at an estimated cost of around Rs 840 crore. This move is significant amid the prolonged military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, now entering its fourth consecutive winter.
The SiG-716 rifles, with a 7.62×51 mm calibre and an effective range of 500 meters, have been chosen to meet the immediate operational needs of frontline troops. The decision to import these rifles follows the delays in the AK-203 project, a joint venture named Indo-Russia Rifles Private Limited, announced in 2018.
Despite the initial plan to equip the Army, IAF, and Navy with over six lakh AK-203 Kalashnikov rifles, challenges such as costing, royalty, technology transfer, and indigenisation have hindered the project. In response to the delays, the Army had previously imported 72,400 SiG-716 assault rifles from the US under a fast-track procurement route in February 2019.
The SiG-716 rifles, known for their longer effective range, increased lethality, and higher recoil compared to indigenous rifles, have been in use without reported glitches. Fitted with Picatinny rails, these rifles allow the mounting of various equipment and accessories without modifications.
While the SiG-716 rifles address immediate requirements, the AK-203 rifles, with a 300-meter effective range, are expected to cater to the overall needs of the 12-lakh strong Army, as well as the IAF and Navy. The AK-203 rifles are part of the Army’s long-delayed ‘future infantry soldier as a system’ (F-INSAS), designed to enhance soldiers’ capabilities through advanced subsystems.
The F-INSAS program includes AK-203 assault rifles with day and night holographic and reflex sights, specialized helmets and bullet-proof jackets for protection, and a communication and surveillance system. The delay in the AK-203 project has prompted the Defence Ministry to secure additional SiG Sauer rifles to meet the immediate operational requirements.
As the military dynamics in the region continue to evolve, the Defence Ministry’s decision reflects a strategic move to ensure the readiness and capability of the armed forces in the face of emerging challenges.
