What’s in the news?

DRDO and Indian Army have developed India’s first indigenous 9mm Machine Pistol. 

About ASMI:

• The weapon is named “Asmi” meaning “Pride”, “Self-Respect” & “Hard Work”
• The Machine Pistol fires the in-service 9mm ammunition.
• With an overall empty weight of less than 2 Kg, it features an 8-inch barrel and 33 rounds high capacity magazine.
• It has an upper receiver made from Aircraft grade Aluminium and lower receiver from Carbon Fibre.
• 3D Printing process has been used in designing and prototyping of various parts including trigger components made by metal 3D printing.

Significance:

• The weapon has huge potential in Armed forces as personal weapon for heavy weapon detachments, commanders, tank and aircraft crews, drivers/dispatch riders, radio/radar operators, Closed Quarter Battle, counter insurgency and counter terrorism operations etc.
• This is also likely to find huge employability with the central and state police organizations as well as VIP protection duties and Policing. 

The Machine Pistol is likely to have production cost under rupees 50000 each and has potential for exports.

Reference:

1. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1688547