India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its key laboratory Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), is undertaking major efforts to develop indigenous heavy-calibre weapons. This initiative includes designing and producing advanced systems such as the 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) and 20mm helicopter-mounted cannons.
The primary aim is to strengthen the self-reliance of India’s armed forces by creating critical heavy weapons essential for roles like infantry support, air defence, and aerial firepower from helicopters.
The 12.7mm HMG is a versatile ground weapon capable of engaging light armoured vehicles, fortified positions, and low-flying aircraft. Meanwhile, the 20mm helicopter-mounted cannon is intended to significantly enhance the firepower of rotary-wing platforms, providing capabilities for close air support, anti-personnel missions, and anti-material roles.
ARDE is also working on developing a 20mm cannon suitable for helicopter integration. This addresses a capability gap in India’s rotary-wing fleet, which currently relies on imported or legacy systems with limited modernization potential. Helicopter-mounted cannons play a crucial role in close air support, suppressing enemy air defences, and neutralizing personnel and light vehicles.
The indigenous 20mm program aims to produce a high-velocity, lightweight weapon compatible with platforms such as HAL Dhruv, Rudra, and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH). Integration will focus on recoil management, compatibility with stabilized fire control systems, and versatile ammunition options for anti-personnel to light armour roles.
Developing these systems domestically reflects India’s strategic intent to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and strengthen the Make-in-India defence technology initiative. The weapons are expected to feature modern design principles emphasizing reliability, ease of maintenance, and integration with existing Indian military platforms.
The development process will include rigorous testing to ensure these weapons meet the operational standards of the Indian Army and Air Force, even in challenging environments such as high-altitude regions. Indigenous production is also expected to improve cost efficiency and allow customization to meet specific operational needs.
ARDE’s development of the 12.7mm HMG and 20mm helicopter-mounted cannons underscores India’s commitment to advancing its heavy weapons manufacturing capabilities, enhancing operational self-sufficiency, and equipping its armed forces with state-of-the-art indigenous armaments. This represents a critical step toward modernization and technological progress in India’s defence arsenal.
