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Top 10 Guns for Indian Army

This article provides list of Top 10 guns For Indian Army, exploring their specifications, features, and operational roles, highlighting their importance in maintaining the Army's superior combat capabilities.
authorImageNigam Sharma24 Jul, 2024
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Top 10 Guns For Indian Army

Top 10 Guns for Indian Army: The Indian Army utilizes a various range of firearms to maintain its combat effectiveness and readiness. This arsenal includes versatile assault rifles, precision sniper rifles, and robust machine guns, each carefully selected to meet the diverse demands of modern warfare. These weapons play a crucial role in ensuring the Army's superiority in various combat scenarios. T his article provides a detailed overview of the top 10 guns used by the Indian Army, featuring their key specifications, features, and usage scenarios.

Top 10 Guns for Indian Army

The Indian Army, renowned for its disciplined and formidable force, relies heavily on a diverse arsenal of firearms to maintain its operational effectiveness and safeguard national security. These weapons are meticulously selected and continuously updated to meet the dynamic demands of modern warfare. From versatile assault rifles to precision sniper rifles, each firearm plays a crucial role in the varied combat scenarios faced by the Indian Army. This article looks into the top 10 guns utilized by the Indian Army, exploring their specifications, features, and operational roles, underscoring their importance in maintaining the Army's superior combat capabilities.

List of Top 10 Guns for Indian Army

Here, we have meticulously compiled a list of the top 10 guns currently in service with the Indian Army. Each entry includes a detailed description, highlighting the firearm's key specifications, unique features, and operational roles within the Army. To facilitate a thorough understanding, we provide an overview table for each weapon, summarizing critical details at a glance. Following the overview, we look into specific features and usage scenarios, offering insights into how these guns enhance the combat readiness and effectiveness of the Indian Army. This structured approach ensures a clear and informative exploration of the best rifles and firearms used by the Indian Army, illustrating their crucial contributions to national defence.

1. INSAS Rifle

The INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifle has been a cornerstone of the Indian Army's infantry weaponry since its induction in 1998. Designed and manufactured by the Ordnance Factories Board, it was developed to replace older rifles with a modern and reliable firearm. Despite some criticisms regarding its performance, it remains widely used by the Indian Army.
Type Assault Rifle
Caliber 5.56×45mm NATO
Manufacturer Ordnance Factories Board
In Service Since 1998

Features of INSAS Rifle

  • Firing Modes: Semi-automatic and automatic.
  • Effective Range: 400 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 4.15 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 20 or 30 rounds.
  • Additional: Equipped with a fixed bayonet.

Usage: The INSAS rifle is primarily used by infantry and frontline troops, offering a balance of accuracy and reliability.

2. AK-203

The AK-203 is a modernized version of the iconic AK-47, tailored to meet the current operational needs of the Indian Army. It is produced through a collaboration between India and Russia, promising enhanced performance and durability. The AK-203 is expected to gradually replace the INSAS rifle.
Type Assault Rifle
Caliber 7.62×39mm
Manufacturer Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited
In Service Since Yet to be inducted

Features of AK-203

  • Firing Modes: Automatic and semi-automatic.
  • Effective Range: 300 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 3.8 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds.
  • Additional: Enhanced ergonomics and accuracy.

Usage: The AK-203 will serve as a versatile weapon for infantry units, providing improved reliability and firepower.

3. M4 Carbine

The M4 Carbine is a highly versatile firearm used by special forces and units requiring rapid mobility. Manufactured by Colt Defense, it offers superior performance in close-quarters combat and is renowned for its lightweight design and accuracy.
Type Carbine
Caliber 5.56×45mm NATO
Manufacturer Colt Defense
In Service Since 1994

Features of M4 Carbine

  • Firing Modes: Fully automatic and semi-automatic.
  • Effective Range: 500 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 2.88 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds.
  • Additional: Modular design for various attachments.

Usage: The M4 Carbine is favored by special forces for its adaptability and effectiveness in dynamic combat scenarios.

4. Tavor TAR-21

The Tavor TAR-21, developed by Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), is a bullpup assault rifle known for its compact design and reliability. It has been adopted by the Indian Army to enhance the capabilities of its special forces and infantry units, offering superior ergonomics and maneuverability.
Type Bullpup Assault Rifle
Caliber 5.56×45mm NATO
Manufacturer Israel Weapon Industries (IWI)
In Service Since 2009

Features of Tavor TAR-21

  • Firing Modes: Semi-automatic and automatic.
  • Effective Range: 500 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 3.27 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds.
  • Additional: Integrated reflex sight.

Usage: The Tavor TAR-21 is used by special forces and infantry units, providing excellent performance in both urban and open-field operations.

5. SIG Sauer 716i

The SIG Sauer 716i is a high-caliber battle rifle adopted by the Indian Army to enhance its firepower in various combat situations. Known for its reliability and precision, this rifle is particularly effective in long-range engagements and challenging environments.
Type Battle Rifle
Caliber 7.62×51mm NATO
Manufacturer SIG Sauer
In Service Since 2019

Features of SIG Sauer 716i

  • Firing Modes: Semi-automatic.
  • Effective Range: 600 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 3.9 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 20 rounds.
  • Additional: Enhanced optics compatibility.

Usage: The SIG Sauer 716i is used by infantry and specialized units for long-range precision shooting.

6. Dragunov SVD

The Dragunov SVD is a semi-automatic sniper rifle used by the Indian Army for long-range precision targeting. Developed in the Soviet Union, it is renowned for its accuracy and durability, making it a reliable choice for sharpshooters.
Type Sniper Rifle
Caliber 7.62×54mmR
Manufacturer Izhmash
In Service Since 1963

Features of Dragunov SVD

  • Firing Modes: Semi-automatic.
  • Effective Range: 800 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 4.3 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds.
  • Additional: Equipped with PSO-1 telescopic sight.

Usage: The Dragunov SVD is primarily used by snipers for precision engagements over extended distances.

7. Heckler & Koch MP5

The Heckler & Koch MP5 is a submachine gun known for its compact size, reliability, and high rate of fire. It is widely used by special forces and counter-terrorism units for close-quarters combat and tactical operations.
Type Submachine Gun
Caliber 9×19mm Parabellum
Manufacturer Heckler & Koch
In Service Since 1966

Features of Heckler & Koch MP5

  • Firing Modes: Fully automatic and semi-automatic.
  • Effective Range: 200 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 2.54 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds.
  • Additional: Suppressor compatibility.

Usage: The MP5 is used by special forces for high-stakes operations requiring stealth and rapid response.

8. Negev NG-7

The Negev NG-7 is a light machine gun developed by Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), offering high firepower and reliability. It is designed to provide sustained fire support in combat situations, enhancing the capabilities of infantry units.
Type Light Machine Gun
Caliber 7.62×51mm NATO
Manufacturer Israel Weapon Industries (IWI)
In Service Since 2012

Features of Negev NG-7

  • Firing Modes: Fully automatic.
  • Effective Range: 800 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 7.6 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 100 or 125-round belts.
  • Additional: Quick-change barrel system.

Usage: The Negev NG-7 is used for providing suppressive fire and supporting infantry maneuvers.

9. FN MAG

The FN MAG is a general-purpose machine gun known for its robustness and reliability. It has been a staple in the Indian Army for providing heavy fire support and maintaining superior firepower in various combat scenarios.
Type General-Purpose Machine Gun
Caliber 7.62×51mm NATO
Manufacturer FN Herstal
In Service Since 1958

Features

  • Firing Modes: Fully automatic.
  • Effective Range: 800 to 1,200 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 11 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 50 or 100-round belts.
  • Additional: Tripod and vehicle mount compatibility.

Usage: The FN MAG is used for heavy fire support in defensive and offensive operations.

10. Barrett M95

The Barrett M95 is a bolt-action sniper rifle designed for long-range precision shooting. Known for its powerful .50 BMG caliber, it is capable of engaging targets at extreme distances with high accuracy.
Type Bolt-Action Sniper Rifle
Caliber .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO)
Manufacturer Barrett Firearms Manufacturing
In Service Since 1995

Features of Barrett M95

  • Firing Modes: Bolt-action.
  • Effective Range: 1,800 meters.
  • Weight: Approximately 10.7 kg.
  • Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds.
  • Additional: Detachable box magazine.

Usage: The Barrett M95 is used by snipers for anti-material and long-range precision engagements.

The Indian Army's arsenal includes a diverse range of firearms, each tailored to meet specific operational needs. From assault rifles like the INSAS and AK-203 to sniper rifles such as the Dragunov SVD and Barrett M95, these top guns ensure that the Indian Army remains a formidable force. Leveraging advanced technology and robust designs, these weapons.

Defence Exams Related Links
AFCAT 1 2024 Notification CDS Notification 2024
UPSC CAPF Notification 2024 NDA 1 Notification 2024
Indian Army Agniveer Notification Indian Airforce Vayu Notification
Indian Agniveer Navy Notification Army MES Recruitment

Top 10 Guns for Indian Army FAQs

Q1: What is the standard assault rifle used by the Indian Army?

A1: The INSAS rifle is the standard assault rifle used by the Indian Army.

Q2: Which rifle is being introduced to replace the INSAS?

A2: The AK-203 is being introduced to replace the INSAS rifle.

Q3: What firearm is favored by Indian special forces for close-quarters combat?

A3: The Heckler & Koch MP5 is favored by Indian special forces for close-quarters combat.

Q4: What sniper rifle is used by the Indian Army for long-range precision targeting?

A4: The Dragunov SVD is used by the Indian Army for long-range precision targeting.

Q5: Which light machine gun provides sustained fire support to infantry units?

A5: The Negev NG-7 light machine gun provides sustained fire support to infantry units.
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