The Northern Command of the Indian Army has received 550 units of the indigenously designed Asmi machine pistols, showcasing India’s strides in self-reliant defence technology under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Developed collaboratively by Colonel Prasad Bansod and DRDO, these pistols are manufactured by Hyderabad-based Lokesh Machines Limited, marking a significant step in India’s commitment to indigenous defence.
About the Asmi Machine Pistol and Its Development
The Asmi, derived from the Hindi word “Asmita” (meaning pride), is crafted for close-quarter battles and tactical operations. This innovative weapon has been designed to function both as a machine pistol and a submachine gun. The manufacturing process was undertaken by Lokesh Machines Limited, with the technology licensed to them by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
| Feature | Details |
| Weapon Type | Machine Pistol / Submachine Gun |
| Developed by | Colonel Prasad Bansod with DRDO |
| Manufacturer | Lokesh Machines Limited, Hyderabad |
| Purpose | Close-Quarter Combat, Special Operations |
| Design Feature | Semi-bullpup design for compact use |
| Induction in Army | Northern Command |
Key Features of the Asmi Machine Pistol
The Asmi pistol was created to meet the Indian Army’s specifications for close-quarter combat and anti-terrorism operations. Its unique semi-bullpup design enables dual functionality, allowing it to be operated as a pistol or submachine gun. Here are some of its key features:
- Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for maneuvering in confined spaces, making it perfect for close-quarter combat.
- Semi-Bullpup Configuration: Allows for single-handed use and a shorter overall length without reducing barrel length.
- High Firing Rate: Provides a rapid rate of fire, enhancing effectiveness in quick, intense operations.
- Reliable Range and Accuracy: Suitable for short to medium distances, it enhances accuracy in urban and CQB (Close Quarter Battle) environments.
- Durability: Built to withstand challenging conditions, ensuring consistency across varied weather and terrains.
Support for Atmanirbhar Bharat
The induction of Asmi machine pistols signifies the Indian Army’s support for the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, aimed at promoting indigenous defence manufacturing. As a 100% Make in India weapon, the Asmi reflects India’s growing capability in defence technology.
U.S. Sanctions on Lokesh Machines Limited
Recently, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Lokesh Machines Limited, along with 14 other Indian companies, for alleged support to Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. Lokesh Machines, known for CNC (computer numerical control) machines, denied involvement in Russian defence exports, stating that their exports are limited to civilian industries.
Indian Army inducted 550 Asmi machine pistols- Summary
- The Indian Army inducted 550 Asmi machine pistols into its Northern Command.
- Asmi, developed by Colonel Prasad Bansod and DRDO, is manufactured by Lokesh Machines.
- The machine pistol’s semi-bullpup design allows dual functionality.
- This step aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- Lokesh Machines Limited was recently sanctioned by the U.S. for alleged support to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
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FAQs about 550 Asmi Machine Pistols
The Asmi machine pistol is an indigenously developed weapon designed for close-quarter battles and tactical operations in the Indian Army.
It was developed by Colonel Prasad Bansod in partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Asmi is manufactured by Lokesh Machines Limited in Hyderabad, India.
The Asmi pistol is compact, with a semi-bullpup design, high firing rate, and strong accuracy for short to medium-range operations.
The U.S. sanctioned Lokesh Machines Limited, alleging support to Russia’s war in Ukraine through technological exports, a claim the company denies.
As a 100% Make in India weapon, it supports India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The semi-bullpup design allows it to be used as a pistol or submachine gun, reducing length without sacrificing barrel size.
