SOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to India’s indigenous defense manufacturing sector, SSS Defence, a Bengaluru-based private firm, has secured a landmark contract with the Uttar Pradesh Police for its newly developed Manohar72 (M72) carbine. Priced at an impressive 93,000 INR per unit (including GST), the M72 not only underscores SSS Defence’s commitment to affordability but also positions it as a cost-effective alternative to both domestic and imported small arms systems. This achievement also resonates with the legacy of Manohar Parrikar, one of India’s most revered Defence Ministers, whose vision of self-reliance in defense continues to inspire innovations like the M72.
The Manohar72, or M72, is a 5.56x45mm NATO carbine designed by SSS Defence to meet the demanding requirements of modern law enforcement and military operations. Tailored for close-quarters battle (CQB), the M72 combines modularity, reliability, and affordability, making it a versatile weapon for urban and rural security scenarios. Its design draws inspiration from advanced Western platforms while being optimized for Indian operational needs, showcasing the ingenuity of India’s private defense sector.
The Uttar Pradesh Police’s decision to procure 2,000 units of the M72 marks a historic moment, as it becomes the first major state police force to adopt this indigenous carbine. The tender process saw SSS Defence emerge as the lowest bidder (L-1), beating out competitors like Kalyani Strategic Systems and Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) by offering a technically superior product at a highly competitive price.
At 93,000 INR per unit (including GST), the M72 carbine undercuts several established domestic and imported small arms systems, highlighting its economic viability and aligning with the Indian government’s push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Let’s break down how the M72 stacks up against its competitors:
- Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) Trichy Assault Rifle (TAR): Estimated at around 1,00,000 INR per unit, the OFB’s TAR—a derivative of AK-pattern rifles—has been a staple for Indian forces. However, the M72’s lower price point and modern design philosophy make it a more attractive option for agencies looking to modernize without breaking the bank.
- AK-203i (Indo-Russian Joint Venture): The AK-203, produced in India under a joint venture with Russia at the Korwa Ordnance Factory, costs approximately 80,000 INR per unit for imported versions, with locally produced units potentially costing more due to technology transfer and royalty fees. While the AK-203 benefits from the legendary reliability of the Kalashnikov platform, its pricing remains higher than the M72, especially when factoring in customization and accessories.
- Sig Sauer SIG-716i: Imported from the U.S., the SIG-716i, a 7.62x51mm battle rifle used by the Indian Army, costs around 1,00,000 INR per unit based on international pricing and import costs. While the SIG-716i offers greater stopping power, its higher cost and larger caliber make it less suited for the lighter, more agile roles that the M72 is designed to fulfill.
- Other Imports (H&K 416, SCAR, Tavor, etc.): High-end imported carbines like the Heckler & Koch HK416, FN SCAR, or IWI Tavor typically cost upwards of $2,500–$3,000 (approximately 2,00,000–2,50,000 INR) per unit, excluding additional import duties and logistics costs. The M72’s price of 93,000 INR makes it a fraction of the cost, offering a compelling case for local procurement over imports.
The naming of the Manohar72 carbine pays homage to Manohar Parrikar, India’s Defence Minister from 2014 to 2017, who is widely regarded as one of the country’s greatest leaders in this role. Parrikar’s tenure was marked by a relentless focus on self-reliance in defense, promoting indigenous manufacturing, and empowering private firms to contribute to India’s security needs. His policies laid the groundwork for initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, which have enabled companies like SSS Defence to thrive.
Parrikar’s vision was not just about reducing dependence on imports but also about fostering innovation and competition within India’s defense ecosystem. The M72 carbine embodies this ethos, offering a homegrown solution that competes with global standards while remaining accessible to domestic buyers like the Uttar Pradesh Police. By naming the carbine after him, SSS Defence acknowledges the enduring impact of Parrikar’s reforms and his belief in the potential of India’s private sector to deliver world-class defense solutions.
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