New assault rifles to replace INSAS, says Antony

New Delhi: India is in the process of procuring new assault rifles to replace the indigenously-designed `INSAS` (Indian Small Arms System) rifles, Defence Minister AK Antony said Wednesday.

"The proposal had been made last year, and technical evaluation of bids is in process," the minister said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

"The procuring will be done through a global route, with the transfer of technology to the Ordinance Factory Board," Antony said.
"The INSAS rifle has been used by the Indian Army since 1994-95. Over the years, with technological advancement, superior assault rifles are now available," Antony said.

IANS