In a step towards advancing the 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance) initiative, the Indian Army has inducted 550 units of the indigenously developed 'Asmi' machine pistol into its Northern Command. This achievement marks a significant milestone in India's journey toward self-sufficiency in essential defence technology.

The 'Asmi' machine pistol, a 100 percent Make in India weapon, was developed by Colonel Prasad Bansod of the Indian Army in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Lokesh Machines in Hyderabad.

Designed specifically for close-quarter battles and specialised operations, the 'Asmi' machine pistol combines compactness and durability to enhance effectiveness in confined, high-intensity environments. Its lightweight build enables swift manoeuverability, making it ideal for CQB scenarios where agility is crucial.

The 'Asmi' features a semi-bullpup configuration, enabling it to function efficiently as both a pistol and a submachine gun, allowing single-handed operation—a valuable feature for rapid responses in critical combat settings. In addition, its high firing rate will be crucial in weakening enemy positions during close encounters. These features can be a big boost to India's modern defense arsenal.

The 'Asmi' machine pistol provides a dependable range and accuracy tailored for close-quarter battle (CQB) and urban operations, ensuring precise engagement at short to medium distances and enhancing soldier effectiveness across various operational scenarios. Its design emphasises reliability and durability, allowing it to perform consistently in rough and challenging conditions, making it highly adaptable to diverse terrains.

As a fully ‘Make in India’ product, 'Asmi' supports customisation to meet specific operational needs and can be rapidly manufactured to fulfill Army requirements, contributing to a flexible and reliable supply chain aligned with India’s Atmanirbharta goals.