Indian army weapons 2024

Indian Army Weapons 2024: A Comprehensive Overview

The Indian Army is undergoing a significant modernization program, with a focus on acquiring new and advanced weapon systems to enhance its capabilities. In 2024, the Indian Army is expected to have a comprehensive range of weaponry, including assault rifles, sniper rifles, machine guns, artillery, tanks, and air defense systems. These weapons will be procured from both domestic and international sources to meet the specific operational requirements of the Indian Army.

Light Infantry Weapons

To enhance the capabilities of its light infantry, the Indian Army is exploring the adoption of advanced weapons and technologies. These include next-generation assault rifles, enhanced optics, and lightweight machine guns. The induction of these systems aims to improve accuracy, range, and firepower, allowing soldiers to engage targets with greater precision and effectiveness in close-quarters combat and urban warfare scenarios. Furthermore, the Army is also considering the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other surveillance systems to enhance situational awareness and target identification for light infantry units.

Assault Rifles and Carbines

The Indian Army's assault rifles and carbines are crucial for close-quarters combat and rapid response operations. The primary assault rifle is the INSAS (Indian Small Arms System), which has been in service since 1996. It is a bullpup-configured weapon chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. The INSAS is complemented by the Tavor TAR-21, an Israeli-made assault rifle known for its ambidextrous design and compact size. For specialized operations, the Army employs carbines such as the CAR-816 and M4A1, providing versatile weapons for short-range engagements and room clearing scenarios.

Machine Guns and Grenade Launchers

The Indian Army is equipped with a wide range of machine guns and grenade launchers. Machine guns provide sustained fire support for infantry units, while grenade launchers are used to deliver indirect fire on enemy positions. Some of the most notable machine guns and grenade launchers used by the Indian Army include the INSAS Light Machine Gun (LMG), the PK Machine Gun, and the Carl Gustaf recoilless rifle. These weapons provide the Indian Army with the firepower necessary to engage and defeat enemy forces.

Snipers and Anti-Materiel Rifles

Artillery and Mortars

In terms of artillery and mortars, the Indian Army plans to upgrade its current M-46 Catapult and Soltam K-6 122mm howitzers with new barrel systems. The Army is also pursuing the acquisition of ultra-light howitzers and extended-range versions of the Dhanush howitzer. Additionally, it aims to enhance its mortar capabilities with the introduction of 120mm and 81mm mortars.

Air Defense Systems

The Indian Army is constantly upgrading its air defense systems to counter evolving threats. Plans to enhance the Air Defence capabilities will see the acquisition of Advanced Air Defence (AAD) systems, Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) systems, and Long Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (LRSAMs). Air Defence Command and Control System (ADCCS) will also be modernized, along with procuring Akash Missiles for ultra-high altitude air defense and the Akash Prime system for better engagement capabilities

Armored Vehicles and Tanks

India's armored fleet is set to receive a significant upgrade in 2024 with the induction of new and advanced tanks and armored vehicles. The Indian Army plans to acquire modern tanks, such as the Arjun Mk-1A, which boasts advanced fire control systems and enhanced mobility. Additionally, the army will procure infantry combat vehicles like the BMP-2 and amphibious combat vehicles to enhance its amphibious capabilities. These upgrades aim to strengthen India's armored forces and bolster its defense capabilities in challenging terrains and combat situations.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have gained significant importance in modern warfare. The Indian Army is actively modernizing its UAV fleet to enhance its surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat capabilities. The army operates a wide range of UAVs, including fixed-wing and rotary-wing systems, each designed for specific missions. Armed drones, equipped with precision munitions, provide the army with the ability to conduct targeted strikes against enemy positions and high-value targets.