In a remarkable transformation, SSS Defence, a company hailing from the tech hub of Bengaluru, has shifted its focus from crafting springs to engineering high-tech sniper rifles that are set to enhance the Indian Army’s arsenal. This strategic pivot marks a significant milestone in India’s indigenous defence manufacturing landscape.
According to a recent report by PTI, SSS Defence has successfully developed two advanced sniper rifles, aptly named the “Viper” and the “Saber,” which are slated for deployment by the Indian Army. This transition highlights the company’s commitment to providing the armed forces with cutting-edge small arms, ammunition, and premium optics for military and law enforcement applications.
SSS Defence is a subsidiary of the renowned SSS Group, with roots tracing back to the establishment of Stumpp, Schuele and Somappa in 1960. This joint venture between Indian industrialist Padma Shri Machani Somappa and German spring manufacturers, Stump & Schuele, marked a pivotal moment in India’s industrial history, becoming the first spring manufacturing unit in the Indian subcontinent.
VIDEO | Indian Army to get Made-in-India sniper rifles developed by Bengaluru-based SSS Defence.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 21, 2023
The company, which focuses on manufacturing of small arms, ammunition and high-end optics for military and law enforcement, has developed two sniper rifles – Viper and Saber. pic.twitter.com/oDxZq0XRri
In a bold move in 2016, SSS Defence diversified its business interests, venturing into the production of small arms and ammunition. Founded in 2017, the company has set its sights on elevating India’s manufacturing prowess to unprecedented heights, with a strong focus on meeting the unique requirements of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies.
Notably, SSS Defence etched its name in history as the first private Indian firm to develop sniper rifles of this caliber. The Viper and Saber rifles, meticulously designed for precision and effectiveness, have garnered significant attention since their unveiling.
In a groundbreaking development in October 2022, SSS Defence broke the eight-year-old monopoly of Chinese suppliers by supplying 2 million rounds of 5.56x45mm ammunition to the Nepalese Army. This achievement underscores the company’s commitment to supporting international defence needs and reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.
One of SSS Defence’s most ambitious ventures is its ammunition production platform. With a vision for producing “significant individual crew-served weapons,” the company has established a state-of-the-art manufacturing unit for small arms in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, complete with an internal proof testing rangeтАФa pioneering feat in India.
The company’s unwavering commitment to innovation is exemplified by its substantial investments in research and development. Notable projects include the development of Semi Auto DMR (Designated Marksman Rifles), lightweight sniper rifles tailored for Special Operations, a close-quarters battle (CQB) Carbine chambered for the 5.56x45mm round, and ongoing refinements to its family of sniper rifles and P-72 assault weapons.
Vivek Krishnan, the CEO of SSS Defence, underscores the company’s dedication to modernizing India’s defence capabilities. In a candid conversation with a prominent business magazine, Krishnan emphasized that their efforts were not merely about upgrading outdated technology but were instead focused on adopting modern weaponry and tactics for snipers, achieving balance in assault weapons, and seamlessly integrating accessories, ammunition, and optics to meet the unique demands of special operations.
With its remarkable journey from springs to sniper rifles, SSS Defence is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s defence future, revolutionizing the country’s capabilities on the global stage.
