Germany lifts restrictions on the sale of small arms to India.
For growing strategic and military ties, Germany has decided to lift restrictions on the sale of small arms to India as an exception.
The German government had earlier imposed restrictions on the sale of small arms to non-NATO countries.
This will pave the way for the sale of small arms from Germany to the Indian military and state police forces.
Earlier, Germany permitted the National Security Guard (NSG) to buy spare parts and accessories for MP5 submachine guns.
The German firm, Heckler & Koch, makes the MP5 submachine guns that are being used by the NSG and Indian Navy’s marine commandos (MARCOS).
The military engagement between India and Germany has increased in recent years.
Two ships from Germany—likely a frigate and a tanker—will visit India as part of a larger deployment and will participate in some sea manoeuvres with the Indian Navy.
Germany could also provide engines for India’s future light tanks programme.
