SIG 716i
India2019 - Present
The SIG 716i is an Indian variant of the SIG Sauer 716 rifle, procured to provide Indian forces with modern 7.62×51mm NATO firepower along contested borders with Pakistan and China.
Primary Specifications
Caliber
7.62×51 mm
Battle rifle caliber for extended range
Weight (Empty)
3.85 kg
Muzzle Velocity
850 m/s
Standard velocity for caliber
Rate of Fire
650 rpm
Typical semi-auto operation
Effective Range
600 m
Designated marksman effective range
Magazine
20 Round Box
Standard capacity for 7.62mm platforms
Quick Summary
What it is?
A 7.62mm NATO battle rifle for high-altitude and border operations
Who uses it?
Indian Army (Northern Command, along LoC and LAC)
Role
Battle rifle / Designated marksman rifle
What's different?
Provides 7.62×51mm NATO firepower superior to 5.56mm INSAS at longer ranges
Why it matters?
Addresses Indian Army's need for greater range and stopping power in mountainous border regions.
Real-World Impact
1
Mountain Warfare
Designed for high-altitude operations along borders with Pakistan and China
2
Extended Range
7.62×51mm effective to 800m vs 400m for 5.56mm rifles
3
Rapid Procurement
Fast-track acquisition to meet urgent operational requirements
4
Quality Manufacturing
American-made precision addresses reliability concerns
Additional Features
Ambidextrous Controls
Yes
Operating System
Gas-operated, Short Stroke
FAQs
1. How many has India ordered?
India ordered 72,400 units in 2019 and an additional 73,000 in 2024, totaling approximately 145,400 rifles.2. Where are they deployed?
3. What caliber is used?
4. Is it fully automatic?
5. When did deliveries begin?
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