DRDO launches assault rifle ‘Ugram’ for Indian Army

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India, in a significant advancement, introduced ‘Ugram,’ an advanced 7.62 x 51 mm calibre assault rifle. This rifle, embodying a blend of indigenous design, development, and production, was unveiled in Pune by Dr. Shailendra V. Gade, Director General of Armament and Combat Engineering Systems at the DRDO. This development marks a key achievement in collaboration with the private sector, specifically with Hyderabad-based Dvipa Armour India Private Limited.

Features and Design of ‘Ugram’ Assault Rifle

‘Ugram,’ meaning ‘ferocious’ in Sanskrit, aligns with the operational needs of India’s armed forces, paramilitary, and state police units. The rifle, notable for its effective range of 500 meters and lightweight design of under four kilograms, was developed at the DRDO’s Pune-based Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE). The design was guided by the General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQRs) of the Indian Army, ensuring a tailor-made solution for the country’s defence needs.

With a 20-round magazine capacity, Ugram offers versatility through its single and full-auto firing modes. Its design parallels the modern AK and AR type rifles, yet stands out with a distinctive rivet-free construction, enhancing its robustness and reliability in various combat scenarios.

Ugram’ Rifle Specifications and Comparative Analysis

The introduction of Ugram comes at a pivotal moment, following the Defence Acquisition Council’s approval in December for the procurement of 70,000 US-made SIG Sauer assault rifles of the same calibre for the Indian armed forces. This was in addition to over 72,000 units procured earlier in 2020, totalling an investment of over Rs 800 crore.

Before Ugram can be inducted into service, it will undergo a series of rigorous evaluations, including internal tests, acceptance trials, and user trials. These steps are crucial in validating its performance and reliability, ensuring that it meets the high standards required for combat operations.

Significance of DRDO’s Initiative in Defense Self-Reliance and Global Standing

This initiative by DRDO, in partnership with private industry, is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in indigenous arms development and manufacturing. It not only signifies a leap in self-reliance in defence technology but also positions India as a potential leader in global arms innovation and production.

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q1. What does ‘Ugram’ mean in Sanskrit, the name given to the new assault rifle introduced by DRDO?
a) Unity
b) Victory
c) Ferocious
d) Precision

Q2. Where was the Ugram assault rifle unveiled by the DRDO?
a) New Delhi
b) Hyderabad
c) Pune
d) Mumbai

Q3. Which division of DRDO was responsible for the development of the ‘Ugram’ assault rifle?
a) Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE)
b) Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE)
c) Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL)
d) Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE)

Q4. What is the effective range of the ‘Ugram’ assault rifle, as mentioned in the passage?
a) 300 meters
b) 400 meters
c) 500 meters
d) 600 meters

Q5. In collaboration with which private company was the ‘Ugram’ assault rifle developed by DRDO?
a) Bharat Forge Limited
b) Reliance Defence and Aerospace
c) Dvipa Armour India Private Limited
d) Tata Advanced Systems Limited

Q6. What magazine capacity does the ‘Ugram’ assault rifle have?
a) 10 rounds
b) 15 rounds
c) 20 rounds
d) 25 rounds

Q7. What distinctive feature does the ‘Ugram’ assault rifle have in terms of construction?
a) Folding stock
b) Rivet-free construction
c) Bullpup design
d) Transparent magazine

Q8. In December, the Defence Acquisition Council approved the procurement of 70,000 US-made assault rifles of the same calibre. What is the calibre of these rifles?
a) 5.56 x 45 mm
b) 7.62 x 39 mm
c) 7.62 x 51 mm
d) 9 x 19 mm

Q9. What is the investment amount mentioned for the procurement of US-made SIG Sauer assault rifles for the Indian armed forces?
a) Over Rs 500 crore
b) Over Rs 600 crore
c) Over Rs 700 crore
d) Over Rs 800 crore

Q10. What step does the passage mention before the ‘Ugram’ assault rifle can be inducted into service?
a) International collaboration
b) Extensive marketing
c) Rigorous evaluations and trials
d) Public demonstration

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