The Indian Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the procurement of Image Intensification (II) weapon sights and Thermal Imaging sights for its frontline assault rifles, including the SIG-716, Negev Light Machine Gun (LMG), and AK-203.
This marks a significant step in modernising infantry capabilities, particularly for night and low-visibility combat.
The RFI seeks to equip soldiers with advanced optics that will enhance their ability to engage targets effectively under varied operational conditions. The focus is on both image intensification technology, which amplifies available light, and thermal imaging systems, which detect heat signatures, thereby providing dual capability for day and night operations.
The SIG 716, chambered in 7.62×51mm, has already been inducted in large numbers to replace older INSAS rifles. The Negev LMG, also chambered in 7.62×51mm, was procured in bulk to strengthen squad-level firepower.
The AK-203, being locally produced under Indo-Russian collaboration, is set to become the backbone of close-quarter battle units. Equipping these platforms with advanced sights will significantly improve accuracy, lethality, and situational awareness.
The Ministry of Defence has already signed a ₹659.47 crore contract in October 2025 with MKU Ltd and Medbit Technologies for advanced night sights for the SIG-716 rifles. These image intensifier devices allow soldiers to engage targets up to 500 metres even under starlit conditions, representing a major improvement over older passive night sights.
The deal was classified as a Buy (Indian-IDDM) case, ensuring more than 51 percent indigenous content and supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The new RFI expands the scope to include thermal imaging sights alongside II devices. Thermal sights are critical for detecting hidden or camouflaged targets, particularly in environments where light amplification alone is insufficient. This dual procurement strategy reflects the Army’s intent to provide soldiers with layered capabilities for diverse combat scenarios.
The procurement will also benefit India’s defence industrial ecosystem. Companies such as MKU, with its electro-optronics division Netro Optronics, are already engaged in developing night vision and thermal systems.
The inclusion of MSMEs in component manufacturing and raw material supply further strengthens the indigenous base. The devices are expected to have a service life of 10,000 operational hours or 10 years, with contractors required to provide long-term maintenance, training, and support.
Operationally, these sights will allow Indian infantry units to exploit the extended effective ranges of their weapons. For the SIG 716, this means accurate engagement up to 500 metres at night. For the Negev LMG, it enhances sustained fire capability in low-light conditions.
For the AK-203, it ensures close-quarter effectiveness even in complete darkness. Together, these upgrades will transform the Army’s night-fighting capability.
Strategically, the move signals India’s determination to modernise its infantry under the Make in India program. It also positions the country to potentially export advanced electro-optics in the future, as domestic firms gain expertise and scale in production.
Agencies
