MoD signs contract worth Rs.1752 Cr with AWEIL for 463 Stabilised Remote Control Guns for Indian Navy & ICG

Defense News ,India :- The Indian Ministry of Defence has recently inked a significant contract on February 14, 2024, with Advanced Weapon Equipment India Ltd. (AWEIL), Kanpur, marking a major stride towards enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. The contract, valued at ₹1,752.13 crores, involves the manufacturing and supply of 463 indigenously produced 12.7 mm Stabilised Remote Control Guns (SRCG). With an impressive Indigenous Content (IC) exceeding 85%, this initiative aligns with the country's vision of "Atmanirbharta in Defence."

The Stabilised Remote Control Guns are poised to play a pivotal role in bolstering maritime security, allowing precise engagement of small targets that pose threats to ships in both day and night conditions within an asymmetric environment. The SRCGs, equipped with a 12.7mm M2 machine gun, have the capability to remotely engage small boats with high accuracy. This technology, showcased by the Ordnance Factory Tiruchirappalli (pictured above), can be seamlessly mounted on warships and patrol boats, enhancing the overall operational effectiveness of naval and coast guard fleets.

Beyond fortifying the operational capacities of the armed forces, this procurement contract signifies a strategic move towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Over the next five years, the contract is expected to open up extensive opportunities for more than 125 Indian vendors and Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), aligning with the broader goal of fostering indigenous capabilities and expertise in the defence sector. This collaborative effort underscores India's commitment to maintaining a robust and self-sufficient defence ecosystem while addressing emerging security challenges in the maritime domain.