The column first appeared in India Today on March 8, 2022
India’s strategic dependence on Russian military equipment remains critical, especially in light of its challenging geopolitical environment. The persistent threat of a two-front war involving Pakistan and China further solidifies this reliance, as any conflict could necessitate urgent military resupplies or spares from Moscow. Here’s a detailed look at some of the Indo-Russian defense military systems:
The BM-30 Smerch is a formidable multiple rocket launcher designed to neutralize heavily fortified enemy targets. It is particularly effective against armored units, artillery batteries, and ammunition depots, making it a key asset for India’s long-range firepower. The Smerch system allows for rapid deployment and sustained fire, enabling Indian forces to maintain a tactical advantage in the battlefield.
The BM-21 Grad is a truck-mounted 122 mm multiple rocket launcher, another Soviet-era innovation. Known for its mobility and ease of use, the Grad system provides a reliable platform for delivering high-intensity barrages. Its versatility ensures it can be deployed quickly to support various combat scenarios, bolstering India’s artillery capabilities.
The M-46 is a manually loaded, towed, 130 mm field gun used extensively for long-range artillery engagements. Its precision and firepower make it indispensable for targeting enemy positions, offering a robust solution for field artillery. Additionally, its compatibility with modern upgrades ensures its relevance in today’s combat scenarios.
The OSV-96 is a semi-automatic heavy precision rifle that fires 12.7×108 mm ammunition. It offers a significant range advantage, capable of engaging targets up to 1,800 meters away. This allows operators to remain beyond the effective range of conventional rifles, giving them an edge in sniper and anti-material missions.
The NSV is a Soviet-designed 12.7 mm heavy machine gun, widely respected for its durability and firepower. It is used for both anti-infantry and anti-aircraft roles, making it a versatile weapon in India’s arsenal. Its high-caliber rounds are effective against light armored vehicles and fortified enemy positions.
In any hypothetical conflict with Pakistan or China, India’s reliance on Russian military technology for immediate operational needs underscores the critical nature of this partnership. Maintaining and modernizing these systems is essential to ensure combat readiness amid escalating regional tensions.
This dependence reflects the depth of Indo-Russian defense ties and their continued relevance in shaping India’s military preparedness…
Read More: India Today
Find more Global Indian Top Reads