Ramana ji, small arms is definitely within the grasp of private sector. The hardest part is the design. Throw open the AAR/MCIWS and INSAS design to private sector to tinker with and they will come up with decent designs in under an year. Look at just what are the sticking points for INSAS:ramana wrote:ks_sachin wrote:
Why not bypass the ofb and get manufacturing done by pvt sector. ARDE can conc on design and dev and surely with the conf that manufacturing quality will be good IA will support and iteratively....
You kidding right? What makes you think suddenly Private Sector will make quality military grade products?
- Furniture from bygone era.
- Poor accessories (slings, magazines)
- Improper extraction.
- Muzzle break design can be improved to reduce muzzle rise.
In fact, INSAS can be upgraded just like the AKMs are being done by FAB defence. Even the existing INSAS can be adapted to use STANAG Nato magazines and a bolt catch be installed in modifications. Take a look at this video, a magwell adaptor is welded and riveted on the receiver of 5.56 AKM derivative (there are several designs that do not require welding, but they are model specific) which gives it ability to use STANAG magazines and bolt hold open.
Ideally, we should be adopting an INSAS rescue program like the brits did with SA-80 involving H&K, which made it a reliable firearm. Reuse the barrels, gas tubes, pistons and bolt carrier, replace the bolt, body and magazines. Make specifications open to all eligible suppliers.