Lokesh Machines Delivers 550 'Asmi' Submachine Guns to Indian Army’s Northern Command

In a significant leap for India's indigenous defence manufacturing sector, Lokesh Machines Limited has completed the delivery of 550 'Asmi' 9x19 mm submachine guns (SMGs) to the Northern Command of the Indian Army. This delivery marks a historic moment, as it is the first time that a submachine gun designed and manufactured by a private Indian company has been inducted into the armed forces.

The consignment was officially flagged off in a ceremony by Major General Rakesh Manocha, General Officer Commanding the Telangana and Andhra Sub Area. The event underlined the importance of this accomplishment, showcasing the Indian Army’s increasing reliance on homegrown defence solutions, a vital shift away from imported weaponry.

Lokesh Machines, a company known for its prowess in CNC machine manufacturing, took a bold step into the defence sector by developing the Asmi submachine gun in collaboration with the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, and the Indian Army. This collaboration represents the strong partnership between India’s industrial and military sectors, aimed at boosting self-reliance in defence technology.

The Asmi, meaning "pride" in Sanskrit, lives up to its name. It is not just a symbol of Indian manufacturing capability but a product that holds its ground against internationally acclaimed SMGs like the Israeli Uzi and the German MP5. After rigorous testing, the Asmi outperformed these global standards, ultimately securing the Indian Army’s confidence.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Asmi SMG is its lightweight design. Weighing less than 2.4 kg, the Asmi is 10-15% lighter than its foreign counterparts, making it highly agile and easy to handle for soldiers in the field. This weight reduction is crucial in modern combat scenarios where speed and mobility can make a significant difference.

The Asmi features a telescoping bolt design, allowing for a more compact form without compromising firepower. Its fully automatic mode, combined with a 9x19 mm caliber, provides the perfect blend of accuracy, control, and rapid-fire capability. It’s equipped with a picatinny rail for mounting advanced optics and accessories, making it versatile for a variety of combat environments.

Not only has Lokesh Machines delivered to the Indian Army, but it has also supplied pilot lots of the Asmi SMG to other elite security units in India, such as the National Security Guard (NSG), Assam Rifles, and the Border Security Force (BSF). These units are currently evaluating the gun, and positive feedback could result in further orders, solidifying Asmi's place as a preferred weapon for Indian security forces.

The Asmi represents a major breakthrough for Indian defence, signaling the capability of local manufacturers to produce world-class military hardware. For Lokesh Machines, this success marks their transformation from a CNC machinery company to a significant player in India's growing defence industry. The induction of Asmi into the Indian Army is a clear sign that India's ambition for Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in defence is gaining momentum.