ARDE Under Barrel Grenade Launcher

History

The UBGL has been in Indian military service since 2010. In 2011, the Indian Ministry of Defence reported that paramilitary forces had ordered around 100 units. Production of 40 mm rounds began in 2020 at Ammunition Factory Khadki under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with the first consignment sent to the Border Security Force. On August 2, 2021, OFT announced compatibility with the Trichy assault rifle, used by the CRPF, CAPF, and various state police forces.

Design

The UBGL attaches to INSAS and various AK-47 rifles via a three-point attachment system and includes a built-in safety to prevent accidental discharge. Its trigger is a button on the left side of the barrel, allowing the soldier to fire both rifle and launcher without changing posture.

A ladder sight mechanism similar to the GP-25 is used, along with tritium illuminated sights for night firing. The launcher fires Practice, HEAP, HEDP, and RP-type 40 mm rounds, which are standardised with those of the Milkor MGL. Installation requires removal of the rifle's handguard.