Srinagar, India – The Indian Army has inducted 550 domestically produced ‘Asmi’ machine pistols into its Northern Command, marking a significant step in India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the ‘Asmi’ pistol is a fully indigenous weapon designed to bolster the nation’s defense capabilities under the Atmanirbharta initiative.
The ‘Asmi’ machine pistol is designed for close-quarter combat, an essential need in counter-insurgency operations within challenging terrains. With a semi-bullpup design, it can be operated single-handedly and functions both as a pistol and a submachine gun. This design allows for improved maneuverability in urban or jungle warfare scenarios.
By introducing the ‘Asmi,’ India aims to reduce its dependence on foreign-made small arms. The new weapon is a cost-effective alternative to imported submachine guns like the MP5, costing only a third of its price. The ‘Asmi’ is set to replace the outdated 1A Carbine, which has been in service since the 1960s.
The induction aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, a campaign designed to reduce dependency on foreign defense imports and foster self-reliance. The Indian Army’s commitment to the initiative was emphasized by the ADG PI, highlighting that the ‘Asmi’ is a 100% Made-in-India weapon aimed at self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing.
The successful induction of the ‘Asmi’ machine pistol is also expected to inspire more collaborations between the Indian Armed Forces and domestic manufacturers. The involvement of private Indian firms, such as Lokesh Machine Limited, underscores the growing role of the private sector in India’s defense sector, propelling the nation toward becoming a global exporter of defense equipment.
