Replacing INSAS Rifles with AK-47

RAJYA SABHA

A large number of small arms/weapons are used in counter-insurgency operations by the Army apart from 5.56 mm INSAS rifle. These include pistols, carbines, assault rifles like AK-47, LMGs etc. Soldiers are provided with operation-specific weapons when embarking on any operation including counter-insurgency operations.

The 5.56 mm calibre ammunition of INSAS rifle is of high velocity and small size. Hence, it penetrates fully into the human body and exits. As a part of the modernization of Indian Army, improvement of weapons is an ongoing process.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Shri Amar Singh in Rajya Sabha today.