BSF Tests Indigenous 7.62mm Ugram Rifle to Replace INSAS

India’s Border Security Force (BSF), the primary guardian of the country’s land frontiers, has initiated rigorous trials of a new indigenous assault rifle named Ugram. This marks a significant step towards modernising the BSF’s firepower by potentially replacing the decades-old 5.56mm INSAS rifle, which has served the force since the late 1990s.

Developed under the leadership of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with Dvipa Armour India Private Limited, the Ugram is chambered for the 7.62x51mm NATO caliber — a powerful round known for superior stopping power and battlefield reliability.

Why is the BSF Considering Ugram?

The INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifle, despite being an important milestone in India’s defence manufacturing journey, has faced persistent issues over the years. Problems like frequent jamming in harsh environments, lack of firepower, and concerns raised by security personnel during operations in conflict zones such as Jammu and Kashmir have been well-documented.

With evolving border security challenges — from countering drone incursions to preventing armed infiltrations — the BSF requires a weapon that delivers both power and dependability in diverse operational conditions.

Ugram promises to address these gaps while supporting India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative by reducing dependence on foreign arms and promoting indigenous defence capabilities.

Key Specifications of the Ugram Rifle

• Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO

• Operating System: Gas-operated, rotating bolt

• Firing Mode: Semi-automatic and fully automatic

• Effective Range: Approximately 500–600 meters

• Magazine Capacity: 20-round detachable box magazine

• Overall Weight: Approx. 4 kg (unloaded)

• Barrel Length: Around 400–450 mm

• Material: Lightweight alloy and composite materials for improved durability

• Attachment Compatibility: Full-length Picatinny rails on top and sides for mounting optics, lasers, foregrips, and other tactical accessories

• Special Features: Adjustable buttstock, ambidextrous controls, enhanced recoil management

Focus of the Trials

The BSF has procured 10 Ugram rifles along with suitable ammunition for extensive field testing. These trials will assess:

• Accuracy and reliability in live-firing exercises

• Performance in adverse conditions such as high-altitude, hot deserts, and humid plains

• Ease of handling, particularly recoil control and balance during rapid firing

• Maintenance needs and durability under prolonged use

• Compatibility with modern attachments and optical sights

Simulated exercises resembling counter-smuggling operations along the Punjab border, and anti-infiltration duties at the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, are likely to be part of this evaluation.

A Shift Back to 7.62mm Caliber

The Ugram rifle’s 7.62mm caliber marks a deliberate return to a heavier, more impactful round — the same size previously used in the Indian Army’s old SLRs (Self-Loading Rifles) before the 5.56mm INSAS was introduced.

This move mirrors recent decisions by the Indian Army to acquire AK-203 rifles (7.62x39mm) and SIG-716 rifles (7.62x51mm) for frontline troops, reflecting a broader preference for greater stopping power against well-armed and determined adversaries, especially in rugged and hostile terrains.

Supporting Make in India and Self-Reliance

One of Ugram’s most strategic advantages is its completely indigenous development and production, eliminating reliance on foreign suppliers for critical components. This will not only reduce costs but also strengthen India’s domestic defence ecosystem and ensure a steady supply chain, vital during emergency situations.

Since its unveiling at DefExpo 2024, the Ugram has attracted attention for its modern design and modular features, tailored specifically for India’s security forces.

The Road Ahead

If the Ugram successfully meets BSF’s stringent operational criteria, it could replace the INSAS rifle for the force’s over 265,000 personnel, significantly upgrading their small arms capability with a weapon built entirely on Indian soil.

This decision would not only modernise BSF’s arsenal but also further India’s aim of becoming self-reliant in defence production, setting a precedent for other Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to follow.

As India faces ever-evolving security threats along its borders, the Ugram rifle could soon become a symbol of the country’s growing indigenous military-industrial strength and a dependable companion for those who stand watch over the nation.