Context:
India is strengthening its internal security and defence preparedness through international defence procurement and collaboration. An Israeli defence firm, Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), is set to supply 40,000 Light Machine Guns (LMGs) to Indian security forces, while also finalising a major deal for 1.7 lakh new-age carbines, reflecting India’s focus on modernising small arms for internal security forces.
Key Highlights:
Government Initiative / Defence Procurement Details:
- 40,000 LMGs to be supplied to India starting early next year.
- Contract for LMGs was signed last year; all testing and government clearances completed.
- Ongoing negotiations to supply ~1,70,000 new-age carbines.
- Collaboration between Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) and India’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Stakeholders Involved:
- Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) – Israeli defence manufacturer.
- Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) – responsible for internal security forces.
- Indian Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and other MHA agencies.
Significance / Applications:
- Enhances firepower, mobility, and tactical efficiency of security forces.
- Supports counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and border security operations.
- Reflects India’s continued defence cooperation with Israel.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Light Machine Gun (LMG):
- Lightweight automatic firearm providing sustained suppressive fire.
- Used extensively by infantry and internal security forces.
- Carbine:
- Shorter and lighter rifle, suitable for close-quarter combat and urban operations.
- Issue & Causes:
- Need to replace obsolete and ageing small arms.
- Rising internal security challenges including terrorism and left-wing extremism.
- Benefits:
- Improved operational readiness and soldier survivability.
- Standardisation of modern weapons across forces.
- Challenges:
- Dependence on foreign suppliers.
- Need for indigenisation and technology transfer.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Facts & Provisions:
- Defence procurement linked to internal security under MHA.
- India–Israel defence cooperation is a key pillar of strategic partnership.
- Keywords & Static Linkages:
- Internal Security, Defence Modernisation, Strategic Partnerships, Small Arms Procurement.
- Linked with GS-3 (Internal Security) and GS-2 (International Relations).
- Way Forward:
- Balance imports with ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ through joint manufacturing.
- Encourage technology transfer and domestic defence production.
- Strengthen long-term strategic defence partnerships while building indigenous capacity.
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS 2: India–Israel relations, defence diplomacy.
- GS 3: Internal security, police modernisation, defence preparedness.
- Prelims: Defence equipment, security institutions, international collaborations.