The 5.56mm Joint Venture Protective Carbine (JVPC), developed in India for close-quarters combat, has been praised by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel for its effectiveness and lightweight design. However, feedback suggests that the weapon's charging handle requires further refinement.
Veteran defence journalist Sandeep Unnithan recently reported on the experiences of CISF personnel using the JVPC, which was procured in 2019. While the carbine has been generally well-received, the charging handle has emerged as a point of concern. Users have reported that it is "not smooth," potentially hindering the weapon's handling in critical situations.
The JVPC, a collaborative effort between the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), was designed to replace outdated submachine guns with a modern, versatile weapon suited for India's security forces. Its compact design, polymer construction, and high rate of fire make it ideal for close-quarters engagements, particularly in counter-terrorism and security operations.
CISF personnel, tasked with protecting critical infrastructure across India, appreciate the JVPC's lightweight design, which is crucial for extended deployments in high-security environments like airports and government facilities. The carbine's effectiveness at close range and compatibility with modern attachments like optics and lights have also been lauded.
However, the issue with the charging handle, a critical component for reloading and operational readiness, cannot be ignored. A stiff or poorly designed charging handle can impede quick reloads and affect a soldier's ability to respond effectively in emergencies.
Despite this drawback, the JVPC is considered a valuable addition to the CISF's arsenal. Addressing the charging handle issue could significantly enhance the weapon's user-friendliness and overall reliability.
This feedback underscores the importance of continuous improvement in weapons development. Further refinements to the JVPC, particularly to its charging handle mechanism, could make it an even more effective tool for India's security forces.
