AK-47, INSAS, M16A2 and more: Top 8 rifles used by Indian Army
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Indian Army's Arsenal
The Indian Army, equipped with a diverse range of assault rifles, is undergoing a significant shift in its weaponry. Let's explore the array of assault rifles employed by the Indian Army currently, encompassing both indigenous and imported models.
INSAS (Indian Small Arms System)
The primary assault rifle of the Indian Army, the INSAS, operates on gas and features selective fire, utilizing the 5.56x45mm NATO round.
AK-47
Widely adopted by Indian troops, the AK-47, sourced from countries like Russia and Romania, supplements the army's firepower with 7.62x39mm rounds. It can hold up to 30 bullets by default, but can be increased to 75 with drum magazines.
AK-74
A variant of the AK-47, the AK-74 fires the 5.45x39mm round, with the Indian Army maintaining a limited inventory of these rifles.
TAR-21 (Tavor)
Produced in Israel, the TAR-21 is deployed by the Indian Army, particularly in counter-terrorism operations, firing the 5.56x45mm round.
M16A2
An American-manufactured assault rifle, the M16A2, firing the 5.56x45mm round, holds a small presence in the Indian Army's arsenal.
SIG Sauer 716
Recently acquired in significant numbers, the SIG Sauer 716 is a contemporary assault rifle firing the 7.62x51mm round, intended to replace the INSAS.
AK-103
A modernized version of the AK-47, the AK-103, employing the 7.62x39mm round, has been recently procured by the Indian Army as part of the INSAS replacement initiative.
Excalibur
Currently in developmental stages, the indigenous Excalibur aims to succeed the INSAS, showcasing the Indian Army's commitment to advancing its weaponry with 'Make in India' initiative.