New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has introduced ‘Ugram’ (ferocious), a fully indigenously developed, lightweight rifle aimed at fulfilling the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces. Weighing in at less than four kilograms, the rifle has been developed in collaboration with the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and a Hyderabad-based private firm.
Officials from DRDO emphasized the remarkable speed at which ‘Ugram’ was developed, stating that it meets international standards and is constructed in steel to withstand adverse and aggressive conditions, ensuring superior performance in the field.
Dr SV Gade, Director General (Armament and Combat Engineering Cluster) of DRDO, unveiled the prototype of the 7.62 x 51mm assault rifle in the presence of ARDE Director A Raju. Following the unveiling, the prototype has been dispatched to the Home Minister and senior army officers for test observations by an independent expert committee.
As part of the development initiative, ARDE has established a dedicated barrel manufacturing facility on its campus. The DRDO has invested Rs 60 crore in the project, aimed at expediting the production of barrels for various weapons. This move is expected to assist private industries in executing their weapon manufacturing projects more efficiently, according to officials.
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