New Delhi: The Indian government has approved the purchase of 70,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles, worth over Rs. 800 crore, for the Indian Army. This significant addition to the Army’s arsenal comes amidst heightened tensions along the borders with China and ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
The acquisition of these advanced rifles will bolster the firepower of soldiers deployed in anti-terrorist operations and other critical duties. The decision was made during a high-level meeting of the Defence Ministry, attended by top Army officials.
This is not the first time India has chosen Sig Sauer weapons. In 2019, the government procured 72,400 Sig716 rifles, with 66,400 allocated to the Army, 4,000 to the Air Force, and 2,000 to the Navy. These rifles were selected for their high capabilities and extended range, proving themselves invaluable in various operations.
The renowned American firearms company Sig Sauer is known for producing the exceptional quality and performance of the Sig 716. Its availability for counter-insurgency operations across the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC) offers significant advantages to the Indian Army.
Previously, the Army relied primarily on the AK-47 and INSAS rifles. While these served their purpose, the AK-47, also used by terrorists in Kashmir, had a limited range of 300 meters. The Sig 716 provides a crucial edge with its superior range and accuracy.
This substantial increase in the Indian Army’s firepower marks a significant step towards enhancing national security and equipping soldiers with the resources they need to effectively carry out their duties.
Comments are closed.