The Modern Sub Machine Carbine (MSMC) is the latest combined venture of Armament Research and Development Establishment & Ordnance Factories Organisation, developed for the Indian Army on a platform of experiences from the INSAS rifle. The gun is very lightweight and compact in comparison with other indigenous produced rifles. It is chambered for the 5.56x30mm MINSAS cartridge.
The MSMC was designed after the Army's disappointment with the progress of a carbine version of the INSAS rifle. A variant called Excalibur was developed, but was deemed unable to fulfill the requirements. The MSMC was designed to rectify the shortcomings of the previous developments. Through various trials and improvements ARDE came out with a grip-feeding, Uzi-like design which shortened the length of the weapon, making it more suited for Close quarters battle(CQB) purposes. Later its ergonomics were improved, boosting its export potential. The weapon is said to be capable of penetrating bullet-proof jackets. It was created as an off-shoot of the INSAS small arms program.
Following design from machine pistols like the Uzi, the MSMC has a pistol grip which allows the user to fire it even with one hand. This allows the insertion of 30-round MSMC magazines on the pistol grip. It has a retractable buttstock and ambidextrous cocking levers on both sides of the MSMC, alongside the fire selectors to suit individuals who prefer to fire the weapon from either the left or right shoulder located above the trigger. It has a picatinny railing on the receiver to allow the installations of weapon sights like reflex and red dot sights. The weapon fires in a gas operated mode, utilizing rotary bolt locking and a gas piston.
Like the Uzi, the MSMC is made up of stamped sheet metal while having polymer housing. An unusual design to the MSMC is the placement of the bayonet lug, located above the barrel just at the front of the receiver. It also has a built-in laser sight.
| Modern Sub Machine Carbine (MSMC) | |
|---|---|
| Type | Personal defense weapon / Submachine gun |
| Place of origin | India |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Armament Research and Development Establishment |
| Designed | 2006 |
| Manufacturer | Ordnance Factories Organisation |
| Number built | Preproduction prototypes only |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 2.98 kg empty |
| Length | 500 mm Closed Stock / 700 mm Open Stock |
| | |
| Cartridge | 5.56x30mm MINSAS |
| Caliber | 5.56mm |
| Barrels | 1 |
| Action | Gas |
| Rate of fire | 700 RPM |
| Effective range | 200-300 m |
| Feed system | 30 round grip-inserted box magazine |
| Sights | Iron |
