SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
The Indian Armed Forces are undergoing a significant shift in their primary infantry weapon, transitioning from the 5.56mm INSAS rifle to the new 7.62mm caliber Ugram assault rifle. This change reflects a strategic move back towards a “shoot to kill” doctrine, prioritizing stopping power over incapacitation.
The assault rifle has been a mainstay for frontline soldiers for decades. In India, the military transitioned from the bulky 7.62mm SLR to the lighter 5.56mm INSAS rifle. This shift was partly driven by a change in doctrine, emphasizing incapacitating enemy combatants to reduce battlefield casualties.
However, contemporary operational scenarios necessitate a return to the heavier-hitting 7.62mm caliber. The Ugram assault rifle, designed by the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, fulfills this requirement.
The Ugram has undergone comprehensive testing not just with the Indian Army but also with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) like the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and others. These evaluations included firing drills and weapon handling assessments. The CAPFs reported that the Ugram outperformed an ex-import Sig 716 rifle in terms of handling, functionality, and ergonomics.
The successful trials have paved the way for the Ugram’s induction into the Indian armed forces and CAPFs. The Directorate of Low Intensity Conflicts (DLIC) of DRDO headquarters is actively working with the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Police Modernization program to facilitate the swift adoption of Ugram by CAPFs.
The Ugram boasts several key features:
- 7.62x51mm Caliber: Delivers superior stopping power compared to the 5.56mm INSAS.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing less than 4 kg, it ensures soldier mobility.
- Superior Ergonomics: User-friendly design enhances control and handling.
- Best-in-Class Performance: Rigorously tested to meet demanding military standards.
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