India marked a significant milestone in its pursuit of defence indigenisation as Advanced Weapons & Equipment India Ltd. (AW&EIL) handed over the first two indigenously produced Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) barrels to the Indian Navy.

AW&EIL carried out the handing-over ceremony at its Field Gun Factory (FGK) in Kanpur.

Umesh Singh, AW&EIL Chairman and Managing Director, ceremoniously handed over the barrels to Rear Admiral Rupak Barua, Director General of Naval Armament Inspection (DGNAI).

The function was attended by AW&EIL's Director of Operations, Director of Finance, and Shri K.R. Sinha, Executive Director of FGK.

SRGM barrels were key components of the 76mm naval gun system deployed on Indian Navy warships.

This handover marked a major step toward achieving self-reliance in defence production.

The Field Gun Factory, as a principal manufacturing unit under AW&EIL, earned praise for successfully indigenising this advanced weapon system.

This system formed a core part of the Navy's surface warfare capability.

The 76mm SRGM, known for its high rate of fire and accuracy, played a crucial role in India’s maritime defense.

It equipped frontline warships like Shivalik-class frigates and Delhi-class destroyers.

AW&EIL’s successful production and supply of the SRGM barrels reflected its dedication to the Indian government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat program.

Rear Admiral Barua commended the FGK team for their technical acumen and commitment.

He described the indigenisation of the SRGM barrels as an upgrade to the Navy’s operational preparedness.

He emphasised that it reduced dependence on foreign supply chains. He stated, “This success is a testament to India's increasing strengths in defense production and synergy between AW&EIL and the Indian Navy.”

Umesh Singh also emphasised the significance of the milestone. He said, “The transfer of these indigenously designed SRGM barrels is a moment of pride for AW&EIL and the Field Gun Factory.”

He stated that the achievement reflected AW&EIL’s firm commitment to innovation and indigenous defense manufacturing. He added, “We feel privileged to play a role in the Indian Navy’s quest to secure our maritime frontiers.”

 K.R. Sinha welcomed the guests and underlined the factory’s central role in building India’s defence strength. He highlighted that FGK, established over a century ago, had grown into a centre for advanced weapons production. He referred to the factory’s capabilities in artillery and naval gun systems. He noted that indigenising the SRGM barrels involved overcoming major technical hurdles.

These challenges included precision engineering and meeting the high quality standards required for naval operations. Everyone at the ceremony appreciated the factory’s contributions.

The 76mm SRGM served as a multi-role naval weapon capable of engaging surface, air, and shore-based targets. Its high rate of fire, combined with modern fire control systems, made it essential for the Indian Navy’s operations.

The indigenisation of SRGM barrels ensured a reliable supply chain and reduced maintenance costs.

It also enabled the Navy to carry out extended missions without relying on foreign components.