India replaces INSAS with AK 203 and SIG 716 in major rifle doctrine shift

Dual rifle doctrine means soldiers may carry two weapon types

India’s armed forces are moving beyond the long-serving INSAS rifle, adopting a dual-rifle approach built around two new platforms: Russia’s AK-203 and America’s SIG 716. The update aims to modernize infantry firepower and improve flexibility on the battlefield, signaling a broader overhaul of small-arms doctrine and procurement strategy for future operations.