The ASMI, short for Asmita (meaning "pride" in Sanskrit), is a 9x19mm caliber submachine gun that marks a significant milestone in India's defence manufacturing capabilities.
Developed and manufactured by Hyderabad-based Lokesh Machines Ltd., the ASMI is the first indigenously designed and produced weapon to be inducted into the Indian Army.
Key Features and Advantages
- Indigenous Design and Production: Designed and manufactured entirely in India, showcasing the country's growing expertise in defense technology.
- Lightweight and Durable: Constructed with an aerospace-grade aluminum unibody receiver, the ASMI weighs less than 2.4 kg, offering a significant weight advantage over international competitors.
- Cost-Effective: Priced at under Rs 1 lakh, the ASMI is considerably more affordable than imported alternatives, providing a cost-effective solution for the Indian armed forces.
- Versatile Ammunition Compatibility: Can utilize both local and imported NATO-standard ammunition, offering flexibility in supply chain management.
- Proven Performance: Rigorously tested under various conditions, including drop, weather, mud, and reliability tests, firing 2,400 rounds without a single class-1 stoppage.
- High Rate of Fire and Magazine Capacity: Fires at 800 rounds per minute with a magazine capacity of 32 rounds, ensuring effective firepower in close-quarters combat.
Adoption and Future Outlook
The ASMI has already garnered attention from various security forces in India. Pilot lots have been delivered to the National Security Guard (NSG) and Assam Rifles for testing and evaluation. Additionally, the Border Security Force (BSF) has placed a pilot order for four guns.With its impressive performance and cost-effectiveness, the ASMI has the potential to become a staple weapon for the Indian armed forces, replacing older and imported submachine guns. The successful development and induction of the ASMI signify a significant step towards India's goal of self-reliance in defense production.
Additional Information
The basic design for the ASMI was provided by the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) and the Indian Army. Lokesh Machines Ltd., traditionally a manufacturer of CNC machines, further developed the design and now manufactures the ASMI at its facility in Toopran, on the outskirts of Hyderabad.The company has plans to enhance the ASMI's features and capabilities in the future, potentially incorporating advanced technologies like integrated optics and modular attachments.
