Hyderabad-based manufacturing company, Lokesh Machines Limited, has been granted a significant license by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India, to manufacture fixed and towed heavy machine guns with calibers ranging from 12.7mm to 30mm.
This license marks a major milestone for the company, allowing it to enter the defence manufacturing sector and contribute to India's self-reliance in critical military equipment. The ability to produce heavy machine guns domestically will reduce import dependence, create opportunities for technology transfer and skill development, and generate local jobs.
Lokesh Machines' foray into defence manufacturing isn't entirely new. It had previously received a license for the commercial production of small arms, supplying approximately 100 weapon sets to elite forces such as the National Security Guard (NSG), Assam Rifles, and other key agencies. The company takes pride in being the first private sector entity in India to achieve this feat.
This strategic move aligns with the Indian government's emphasis on promoting indigenous defence manufacturing, potentially opening doors to new opportunities in both domestic and international markets for Lokesh Machines.
