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Indian Army Launches Major Small-Arms Modernisation with Indigenous 9-mm Pistols
Indian Army Launches Major Small-Arms Modernisation with Indigenous 9-mm Pistols
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍India
The Indian Army is embarking on a significant modernization initiative focused on small arms, highlighting plans to acquire one lakh indigenous 9-mm pistols. This move is anticipated to bolster the Army’s close-quarters combat capabilities, particularly among infantry units.
In line with the government’s Make-in-India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, the Ministry of Defence has launched a Request for Information (RFI) to pinpoint qualified domestic manufacturers. This strategy signals a major shift towards replacing outdated sidearms and standardizing the use of contemporary pistols across various military formations.
The newly designed pistols will cater to urban warfare, counter-insurgency, and counter-terrorism operations. Emphasizing lightweight construction and agility, these weapons are intended for quick deployment in confined spaces. Specifications for the pistols include night sights and advanced targeting features to ensure their effectiveness in diverse operational environments.
A primary goal of this modernization effort is to phase out the current production of 9-mm semi-automatic pistols at Rifle Factory Ishapore. The new models will incorporate ambidextrous controls, compatibility with suppressors, and accessory rails, thus offering substantial improvements over existing systems. Though current special forces primarily use imported pistols, the aim is to provide the larger infantry with a common and superior platform.
The RFI also addresses future modernization needs, such as design adaptability and provisions for Transfer of Technology (ToT). Following procurement, the Army intends to establish licensed production for these pistols and their accessories, which will help decrease reliance on imports and bolster the domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem.
Operational reliability remains a top priority in the specifications. The pistols must function effectively in a variety of terrains, including plains, deserts, and high-altitude areas exceeding 18,000 feet. They are expected to perform seamlessly in extreme temperatures, ranging from –30°C to +55°C, and must demonstrate modular capabilities that allow for upgrades through straightforward modifications without the need for comprehensive redesign.
This pistol initiative is part of a larger series of upgrades underway for the infantry. In addition to the introduction of Light Machine Guns (LMGs) and Close Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines, Israel Weapon Industries has confirmed the delivery of the first batch of 40,000 LMGs is expected early next year. Concurrently, a significant CQB carbine contract is nearing finalization, involving 4.25 lakh 5.56×45 mm carbines under the Buy (Indian) category, with Bharat Forge as the main bidder and the Adani Group’s PLR Systems supplying a substantial portion.
Furthermore, the Defence Research and Development Organisation, in collaboration with the Army, has already developed an indigenous 9-mm weapon tailored for counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, featuring innovative 3D-printed components. This advancement highlights the growing sophistication of India’s defense research and development capabilities.
Strategically, the initiative to procure one lakh pistols underscores India’s commitment to indigenisation in response to evolving border and internal security challenges. By replacing outdated sidearms with modern, terrain-agnostic firearms, the Indian Army not only enhances its tactical advantage but also lays the groundwork for sustained self-reliance and the potential for future defense exports.
As the Indian Army pushes towards self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing, the introduction of indigenous 9-mm pistols is a key milestone in modernizing military capabilities. While this initiative aligns with broader national security strategies, the successful realization of these commitments remains to be seen, especially in the context of global supply constraints and technological advancements in battlefield weaponry.