DRDO recently introduced Ugram, a cutting-edge assault rifle with a 7.62 x 51 mm caliber. Developed in collaboration with the private industry partner Dvipa Armour India Private Limited, the rifle is tailored to meet the operational needs of armed forces, paramilitary, and state police entities.
The first operational prototype, named Ugram, was unveiled in Pune by Dr Shailendra V Gade, Director General of Armament and Combat Engineering Systems at DRDO. Weighing less than four kilograms and possessing an effective range of 500 meters, the rifle stands out for its portability and operational versatility.
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Noteworthy features of the Ugram assault rifle include a 20-round magazine, the ability to fire in both single and full auto mode, and a design comparable to the latest AK and AR type rifles. The rivet-free construction enhances its robustness.
DRDO’s Ugram Enters Critical Testing Phase
The timing of this launch is significant, given the recent approval by the Defence Acquisition Council for the procurement of 70,000 US-made SIG Sauer assault rifles of the same caliber. DRDO’s Ugram will undergo internal tests, acceptance trials, and user trials before potential induction into service.
ARDE Director Ankathi Raju highlighted the mission mode nature of the project, initiated two years ago. The Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) approach, involving collaboration with a vendor throughout the design and production stages, expedited the project. Hyderabad-based Dvipa Armour received the order for manufacturing, with trials scheduled to commence soon.
As part of the rigorous testing process, Ugram will undergo continuous firing, accuracy checks, and evaluations in various environmental conditions, including high altitudes and deserts. A board of Army officers will oversee the acceptance procedure, with any identified non-compliances promptly addressed. Internal trials at DRDO’s small arms testing facility preceded the external trials. Despite the project’s design and analysis initiation two years ago, collaboration with the private vendor saw completion in an impressive 100 days.
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