Indian Special Forces are known for their exceptional skills and ability to carry out high-risk operations in various terrains and environments. To effectively accomplish their missions, these elite forces rely on a wide range of top-rated military hardware.
In this article, we will explore the most commonly used weapons by Indian Special Forces, highlighting their capabilities and significance in the field.
1. Tavor Family of Rifles
The Tavor family of rifles has become the standard weapon platform for all three Special Forces wings of the Indian Armed Forces. This family of rifles offers commonality in parts, which is crucial for the Special Forces. The Tavor family includes variants such as GTAR-21 (Grenadier Variant), STAR-21 (Marksman Variant), and CTAR-21 (Carbine Variant).
Initially adopted by Para SF and SFF, the Tavor rifles later became the standard issue for MARCOS and Garuds. Additionally, CRPF COBRA, BSF Commandos, and other State Commando and Counter-Terrorism Units also utilize the X-95, a derivative of the Tavor family.
2. Kalashnikovs and Its Variants
The Kalashnikovs have been a ubiquitous weapon among Indian Special Forces for decades. The Special Frontier Force (SFF) was the first to acquire Bulgarian AKMs, while Para SF acquired captured Chinese-made Type 56 rifles.
Hungarian AK-63D rifles were later acquired by Para SF, and mass induction of Kalashnikovs began for both Special Forces and Infantry units. Indian Special Forces employ a wide range of Kalashnikov variants, including the AR-M1 (Bulgarian copy of AK-47), Mpi KMS-72 (East German-produced AK knockoff), Romanian AKs like Md.63 and Md.90, and Galil SAR.
It’s important to note that Vz.58, although often mistaken as an AK knockoff, bears no similarity to the AK-47 except for the rounds it fires. The Vz.58 was the standard issue for Para SF until it was replaced by Tavors.
3. Carl Gustav Recoil-Less Rifle
The Carl Gustav Recoil-Less Rifle, developed by OFB through a license from Swedish Saab, is a highly versatile 84 mm man-portable reusable anti-tank recoilless rifle.
This weapon is widely used by Indian Special Forces to destroy bunkers, lightly armored targets, fortifications, and more. Its accuracy, impressive range, and firepower make it an indispensable weapon for Special Forces units worldwide.
The Carl Gustav Recoil-Less Rifle offers tactical flexibility through its wide range of ammunition types, including HEAT, HEDP, SMOKE, HE, and more.
4. MP-5 Submachine Gun
The MP-5 Submachine Gun has been in use by many Indian Special Forces units for almost four decades and continues to be popular due to its effectiveness in close-quarter battle (CQB).
This weapon is extensively employed by NSG, MARCOS, and numerous Indian SWAT and Anti-Terrorism Units for CQB roles. Chambered for the German 9x19mm Parabellum round, the MP-5 delivers unmatched damage and precision fire, making it a preferred choice for many Counter-Terrorism and SWAT units.
Its high fire-rate and lightweight design have earned it a legendary status comparable to the AK-47 and AR-15.
5. SIG SG550 Series of Rifles
The SIG SG550 series of rifles combines the Kalashnikov long-stroke gas piston with a closed bolt system, resulting in an extremely reliable and accurate weapon system.
This rifle platform offers various variants, with the National Security Guard (NSG) employing it in bulk. The SG550 features ambidextrous safety controls, a foldable butt-stock, and a high rate of firepower, making it suitable for a wide variety of missions.
The NSG utilizes the SG551SB (Short-Barrel), SG553LB (Long-Barrel), and SG553SB (Short Barrel) variants of the SG550. Additionally, various SWAT and Counter-Terrorism units, such as Punjab SWAT, also employ this rifle platform.
6. Galatz Sniper Rifle
The Galatz Sniper Rifle is a sniperized variant of the Galil platform. Chambered for the heavier 7.62x51mm NATO round, this rifle provides enhanced killing power and accuracy over long ranges.
It serves as the standard Designated Marksman Rifle for all three Indian Special Forces, extending the firepower and accuracy of the rifle squad by delivering rounds with exceptional precision over longer distances.
7. PSG-1 Sniper Rifle
The PSG-1 Sniper Rifle, developed by German H&K, has gained legendary status for its use by multiple SWAT and Counter-Terrorism units worldwide.
Firing a heavy and deadly 7.62x51mm round, the PSG-1 is utilized by MARCOS, NSG, and other Indian SWAT units such as OCTOPUS and Greyhounds. With match-grade rounds, it achieves an accuracy of 1 MOA (Minute of Angle), making it an ideal weapon for urban scenarios.
8. Glock-Series of Pistols
Glock Pistols have become the mainstay of Indian Special Forces units, alongside the Pistol 9mm 1A (license-produced Browning) and Beretta 92 pistols.
Para SF, MARCOS, NSG, and Garuds extensively utilize these semi-automatic polymer-framed pistols known for their accuracy, reliability, and lightweight design. The Glock 17, 19, and 26 models are commonly used by Indian Special Forces units.
9. Negev Light Machine Gun
The Negev Light Machine Gun is a high-firepower and versatile weapon that serves as the primary Squad Automatic Weapon for MARCOS, SFF, and Garuds. Firing a 5.56x45mm round, it can deliver over 700 rounds per minute up to a range of 600 to 1000 meters.
Equipped with a fire control selector switch, box-fed magazine, and a removable bipod for additional accuracy, the Negev is an indispensable weapon for Special Forces operations.
10. Pika General Purpose Machine Gun
The Pika General Purpose Machine Gun, of Soviet origin, is renowned for its hitting power and extreme reliability. Firing a 7.62x54mmR round, it demonstrates reliability on par with the AK-47 and is suitable for a variety of roles, including as a helicopter-gunner and vehicle-mounted machine gun.
Para SF employs Russian PK and Romanian PKM Machine Guns, along with captured Pikas (Norinco Type 80) from terrorists in Kashmir. SFF is the only known force, apart from Para SF, to use the Pika GPMG.
11. SVD Dragunov
The SVD Dragunov is one of the most widely used sniper rifles in the world. It has demonstrated its reliability, killing power, and dead-end accuracy across numerous conflicts. With its ability to engage targets up to 1000 meters, the SVD Dragunov is hailed as one of the best sniper rifles ever produced.
Indian Special Forces, including Para SF, MARCOS, and SFF, extensively employ this rifle for marksmanship and medium-range sniping.
In conclusion, Indian Special Forces rely on a diverse array of weapons to carry out their high-risk operations. The Tavor family of rifles, Kalashnikovs and their variants, Carl Gustav Recoil-Less Rifle, MP-5 Submachine Gun, SIG SG550 series of rifles, Galatz Sniper Rifle, PSG-1 Sniper Rifle, Glock-Series of Pistols, Negev Light Machine Gun, Pika General Purpose Machine Gun, and SVD Dragunov are among the most commonly used weapons.
These weapons offer exceptional firepower, accuracy, and reliability, providing Indian Special Forces with a significant advantage in the field.
