India has achieved a milestone in defence self-reliance with the successful indigenous production of gun barrels for the Indian Navy’s main weapon, the Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM). These barrels are now being manufactured for the first time at the Field Gun Factory in Kanpur, replacing the earlier practice of importing them or producing them under license from an Italian company at BHEL Haridwar.

Two of these locally-made barrels have already been delivered to the Navy, and all future warships will be equipped with the Kanpur-made versions. A team of 12 Indian engineers developed the barrels over a span of three years, marking a significant step towards cutting costs and ending foreign dependence.

It is the first time India has started making gun barrels for the Navy’s main weapon- the Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM), at the Field Gun Factory in Kanpur. Earlier, these barrels were imported or made under a foreign company’s license at BHEL Haridwar. Now, two Kanpur-made barrels have been handed over to the Navy, and all future warships will use these. A team of 12 Indian engineers developed the barrels over three years. This step will help cut costs and end the need to depend on foreign suppliers.

The SRGM is a fast and powerful naval gun that can fire up to 120 rounds per minute. It has a 4,588 mm long barrel and uses 76mm shells. The gun can hit fast-moving targets like enemy planes or missiles up to 15 km away. It is known for its high speed and accuracy, making it useful in modern-day naval fights.To further support the Navy, the Ministry of Defence signed a ₹2,956.89 crore contract with BHEL Haridwar to build 16 upgraded SRGM systems and related parts. This deal will strengthen India’s defence and push the goal of becoming self-reliant.