The Indian Armed Forces maintain one of the worldโs largest militaries, with over 1.4 million active personnel across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Pistols play a critical role in their arsenal, serving as secondary weapons for officers, vehicle crews, and special operations teams. As of 2025, the forces rely on a combination of legacy systems, imported firearms, and newly developed indigenous models to meet diverse operational demands from border patrols in harsh terrains to urban counter-terrorism. This shift aligns with Indiaโs Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative, emphasizing local manufacturing to reduce foreign dependence while ensuring compatibility with NATO-standard ammunition like 9ร19mm Parabellum.
Historically, Indiaโs pistol procurement began with British colonial influences, evolving through licensed productions in the post-independence era. The Ordnance Factory Board (now restructured under Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited) has been pivotal in producing sidearms, supplemented by imports from Europe and Israel. Recent expositions, such as the International Police Expo 2025, highlight indigenous innovations like red-dot sight pistols, though adoption varies. Special forces units, including Para SF, MARCOS, and Garuds, often receive priority for advanced models due to their high-risk missions. While no major controversies surround pistol usage, discussions on cost-effectiveness and performance in extreme conditions persist, with sources like military forums and defense analyses providing balanced views.
Below is an in-depth examination of eight prominent pistols in current use, selected based on prevalence, strategic importance, and recent inductions. These are drawn from reliable sources, including Wikipedia entries and defense publications, ensuring factual accuracy.
Comparative Specifications Table
| Pistol Name | Origin | Caliber | Magazine Capacity | Effective Range | Weight (Unloaded) | Key Features | Primary Users in Indian Forces |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pistol Auto 9mm 1A | India (licensed from Canada/Belgium) | 9ร19mm Parabellum | 13 rounds | 50 m | ~970 g | Short recoil, hammer-fired, suppressor-compatible | Standard across Army, Navy, Air Force |
| Glock 17 | Austria | 9ร19mm Parabellum | 17 rounds (standard) | 50 m | 625 g | Polymer frame, striker-fired, high reliability | Para SF, MARCOS, NSG |
| Beretta 92 | Italy | 9ร19mm Parabellum | 15 rounds (standard) | 50 m | 970 g | Short recoil, double-action trigger | MARCOS, select police units |
| SIG Sauer P226 | Switzerland/Germany | 9ร19mm Parabellum | 15 rounds (standard) | 50 m | ~965 g | Double/single action, decocker | Certain Army units (reported) |
| IWI Masada | Israel (manufactured in India) | 9ร19mm Parabellum | 17+1 rounds | 50 m | 650 g | Striker-fired, modular grips, Picatinny rail | Indian Navy |
| ASMI Machine Pistol | India | 9ร19mm Parabellum | 33 rounds (Glock-compatible) | 100 m | 1.7โ2 kg | Blowback action, folding stock, 3D-printed parts | Para SF, Northern Command |
| Brugger & Thomet MP9 | Switzerland | 9ร19mm Parabellum | 15โ30 rounds | 100 m | 1.4 kg | Selective fire, integrated suppressor option | Special forces, Ghatak platoons |
| FN Five-seven | Belgium | 5.7ร28mm | 20 rounds (standard) | 50 m | 610 g | Delayed blowback, armor-piercing capability | SPG, select military wings |
Top Pistols Used By Indian Armed Forces
Pistol Auto 9mm 1A: The Workhorse Sidearm
Manufactured by Rifle Factory Ishapore since 1981, this pistol is a faithful reproduction of the iconic Browning Hi-Power. With a 13-round magazine and muzzle velocity of 396 m/s, itโs designed for short recoil operation and effective at 50 meters. Its hammer-fired mechanism allows for precise shooting, and itโs compatible with suppressors for covert ops. As the primary sidearm for regular troops, it equips vast numbers across the forces, with production exceeding 650,000 units by 2014. Its longevity stems from low maintenance needs, though modernization efforts seek lighter alternatives.
Glock 17: The Reliable Polymer Powerhouse
Introduced to Indian special forces in the early 2000s, the Glock 17 features a 17-round magazine, 114mm barrel, and weighs just 625g unloaded. Its striker-fired action and Safe Action safeties ensure minimal malfunctions, even in adverse conditions. Used by elite units like Para SF and MARCOS, itโs praised for accuracy and ease of use. Variants like the Glock 19 (compact) and 26 (subcompact) extend its versatility, with shared parts reducing logistics burdens. Adoption reflects a global trend toward polymer firearms.
Beretta 92: Precision from Italy
The Beretta 92S, with its 125mm barrel and 15-round capacity, employs a short recoil system for smooth operation. In Indian service since the 1990s, itโs primarily with MARCOS for its ergonomic design and muzzle velocity of 381 m/s. The double-action trigger allows safe carry, and its alloy frame balances durability with weight. While not as widespread as indigenous options, it fills niche roles in maritime and commando operations.
SIG Sauer P226: Versatile Double-Action Option
This pistol, chambered in 9mm with a 15-round magazine, features a decocker for safe handling and is reported in use by some Army personnel. Its aluminum frame and short recoil action provide stability, with an effective range of 50 meters. Though not universally listed in official inventories, media and video sources confirm its presence in training and operations, highlighting its reputation for accuracy.
IWI Masada: Modern Modular Import
Locally produced under license since 2021, the Masada weighs 650g with a 104mm barrel and 17+1 round capacity. Its striker-fired mechanism and tritium sights enhance low-light performance. Ordered for the Navy (initially 500 units), it supports Indiaโs private sector defense growth via PLR Systems. The modular design allows grip customization, making it ideal for varied users.
ASMI Machine Pistol: Indigenous Innovation
Developed by DRDO in 2020 and inducted in 2024, the ASMI (1.7โ2kg) uses Glock magazines for 33 rounds and has a 600 rpm rate. Its blowback action and folding stock suit close-quarters, with a 100m range. Produced by Lokesh Machines, 550 units were delivered to Para SF by October 2024, emphasizing cost savings (โน50,000 per unit) and self-reliance.
Brugger & Thomet MP9: Compact Firepower
This Swiss machine pistol, weighing 1.4kg with up to 30 rounds, offers selective fire for versatility in special ops. Equipped with Picatinny rails, itโs used by Ghatak platoons and commandos for its suppressible design and 900 rpm capability. Its adoption underscores Indiaโs focus on high-mobility weapons.
FN Five-seven: Armor-Piercing Specialist
Unique with 5.7ร28mm ammo, this 610g pistol holds 20 rounds and penetrates body armor at 50m. In Indian service since 2008, itโs with SPG for VIP protection, leveraging low recoil and high velocity (up to 762 m/s). Its polymer construction aids concealment, making it a premium choice for elite security.
In conclusion, these pistols embody the Indian Armed Forcesโ adaptive strategy, balancing tradition with innovation. Future trends may see more indigenous models like the Phantom pistol, showcased in 2025, entering service amid ongoing procurements.
