Did the Government Sign a Rs 659.47 Crore Deal for Advanced Night Sight for Indian Army's Assault Rifles?
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Synopsis
The Indian Ministry of Defence has inked a significant contract worth Rs 659.47 crore for advanced night sights for the army's assault rifles. This initiative not only strengthens military capabilities but also boosts local manufacturing. Explore the implications of this strategic move for India’s defense sector and its indigenous production goals.
Key Takeaways
- Deal Value: Rs 659.47 crore for night sights.
- Effective Range: 500 metres under starlit conditions.
- Indigenous Content: Over 51% supporting local manufacturing.
- Defense Production Surge: Reached Rs 1.46 lakh crore.
- Minister's Statement: Emphasized the importance of self-reliance.
New Delhi, Oct 15 (NationPress) On Wednesday, the Ministry of Defence finalized a contract valued at Rs 659.47 crore for acquiring advanced night sight (image intensifier) systems designed for 7.62 x 51mm assault rifles, including necessary accessories, for the Indian Army. This agreement was signed with the joint venture of M/s MKU Ltd and M/s Medbit Technologies Pvt Ltd, as confirmed by an official release.
The newly procured night sight will empower soldiers to optimize the extended effective range of the SIG 716 Assault Rifle, as stated in the announcement.
These sights are engineered to target objects effectively at distances up to 500 metres, even in starlit environments, marking a substantial upgrade over the current passive night sights (PNS). This acquisition, featuring more than 51 percent indigenous content, represents a significant milestone towards Aatmanirbharta in defense manufacturing. Furthermore, this initiative will benefit MSMEs engaged in component manufacturing and raw material supply, the statement elaborated.
India’s defense production has reached an unprecedented high of Rs 1.46 lakh crore, with exports climbing to a record Rs 24,000 crore in 2024-25, according to official statistics.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted, "Our defense production, which stood at Rs 43,000 crore a decade ago, has now surged past Rs 1,46,000 crore, with the private sector contributing over Rs 32,000 crore. Our defense exports, which were around Rs 600-700 crore ten years ago, have now exceeded Rs 24,000 crore."
He emphasized the significance of Make-in-India for national security and prosperity, stating that the successful deployment of indigenous systems during Operation Sindoor demonstrates India’s capability to breach any enemy armor.
Earlier this month, Rajnath Singh inaugurated a national conference titled ‘Opportunities in Defense Manufacturing in the Country’ at Vigyan Bhawan. This conference, organized under the auspices of the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, aimed to enhance collaboration between the Ministry and state governments, aligning regional industrial policies with the overarching national goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Point of View
This development in defense procurement signals a robust commitment to enhancing India's military capabilities. The focus on indigenous production underlines the government's dedication to self-reliance, ensuring that our armed forces are equipped with cutting-edge technology while bolstering local industries. This strategic initiative is poised to strengthen India's defense posture on the global stage.
NationPress
15/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the deal signed by the Ministry of Defence?
The deal signed by the Ministry of Defence is valued at Rs 659.47 crore.
Which companies are involved in this procurement?
The procurement involves a consortium of M/s MKU Ltd and M/s Medbit Technologies Pvt Ltd.
What is the effective range of the new night sights?
The new night sights are capable of engaging targets up to an effective range of 500 metres.
How does this acquisition support local manufacturing?
This procurement includes more than 51 percent indigenous content, promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
What impact does this deal have on India's defense exports?
The deal is part of a broader trend where India's defense production has surged, with exports reaching a record Rs 24,000 crore.
