In what could be perceived as an unmistakable signal that India is rapidly emerging as a major force in advanced defence manufacturing and international security collaboration, a Bengaluru-based defence manufacturer has announced its decision to participate in a UK ministry of defence tender to replace its SA80 family of rifles.
Announcing the decision, SSS Defence, in a social media post, said, "We have taken a firm decision to pursue participation in the UK MoD’s Project Grayburn."
It further said in the post: "Why make it official? Because we have successfully delivered to our Indian customers — and actions speak louder than words. Because we stand fully confident in the progressive design, manufacturing quality, and battlefield reliability of our weapon systems. Because commitment transforms “we might” into “we will.” From India to the world."
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This is the first time a small arms manufacturer from India is bidding for a foreign defence contract of such massive scale as the project involves weapons, ammunition and associated parts.
According to the UK defence ministry tender, Project GRAYBURN requires that the guns be manufactured in the UK to enhance sovereign supply chains, generate employment, and provide a platform for exports.
Project GRAYBURN will deliver five distinct variants, most likely based upon a common lower receiver.
a. Dismounted Close Combat (replacing SA80A3).
b. Dismounted Close Combat (short) (replacing SA80A3).
c. Personal Defence Weapon (replacing L22 Carbine).
d. Generalist (replacing SA80A2).
e. Cadet rifle (replacing L98 Cadet GP rifle).
Project GRAYBURN will look to provide sufficient lethality to defeat current and emerging body armour, and ensure that the weapons will be fitted with day-optics and have the ability to quickly integrate with in-line night vision optics.
The contractor will have to deliver a highly reliable rifle, operable in all environments and climatic conditions.
SSS Defence, which began making small arms development around seven years ago, manufacturers a range of weapons, including pistols, sub machine guns, assault rifles and sniper rifles. The company already exports rifles to three countries in Central Europe and is planning to enter two Asian countries as well.