New Delhi, June 9, 2025 — In a significant stride towards next-generation warfare, India has successfully tested an artificial intelligence-powered Light Machine Gun (LMG) system in the challenging high-altitude terrain of 14,000 feet, signalling a robust enhancement in autonomous combat capability.
The test was carried out in collaboration with the Indian Army and Dehradun-based defence tech firm BSS Material Ltd., the developers behind this groundbreaking weapon system. The trial marks a technological milestone under the country’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ missions, which seek to strengthen defence self-reliance through indigenous innovation.
AI Meets Firepower: Negev LMG Evolves
At the heart of the successful test lies the AI-integrated Negev LMG, a light machine gun re-engineered with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Designed for high-risk and rugged terrains like India’s northern borders, the weapon proved its ability to autonomously identify, track, and engage enemy targets even in low-visibility and hostile environmental conditions.
BSS Material Ltd. stated that the AI-enabled system sustained precise target acquisition, adaptive fire control, and real-time situational analysis during all phases of the trial.
Key Features of the AI-Enhanced Negev LMG
- Thermal and Optical Sensor Fusion: Ensures precise targeting under varying light and weather conditions
- Ballistic Compensation Module: Adjusts for wind, elevation, and temperature to ensure accuracy
- Encrypted Remote Command Support: Allows for secure control in forward operating areas
- Friend-Foe Recognition: Automatically differentiates between allies and threats
- Real-Time Target Engagement: Responds in milliseconds to emerging threats
Engineers behind the project emphasized that the AI module is platform-agnostic, meaning it can be installed not just on LMGs but also on anti-drone systems, unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), remote weapon stations (RWS), and static surveillance units.
Designed for Modern Warfare
With the Negev AI system, the Indian military is poised to enhance perimeter security, convoy protection, and base defence — especially in areas where terrain or logistics limit human deployment. The technology allows for semi-autonomous surveillance and threat mitigation, reducing soldier exposure in dangerous scenarios.
“The idea is to empower frontline troops with decision-making tools while reducing the cognitive load in combat,” said a senior engineer from BSS Material. “This is about saving lives while increasing operational efficiency.”
Trial Context: Operation Sindoor Influence
The AI-LMG’s field test comes on the heels of Operation Sindoor, where India’s indigenously-developed weaponry displayed superior performance compared to Pakistani arms in recent border skirmishes. The successful use of homegrown tech during the operation has further solidified the strategic vision of integrating AI into India’s combat systems.
Military and Strategic Implications
With tensions simmering along India’s borders and emerging threats from both state and non-state actors, the shift toward AI-assisted weaponry signifies a transformative change in national defence strategy. The use of such systems can extend India’s operational reach into inaccessible terrains, while reducing dependency on constant manpower deployment.
Officials have hinted that this AI-powered LMG may be field-deployed in specific forward zones following further testing and validation, aligning with India’s broader push to modernize and digitize its military arsenal.
