Bengaluru-based Indian small arms manufacturer SSS Defense has formally announced its participation in the UK Ministry of Defence’s ambitious Project Greyburn. This program has been launched to replace the existing SA80 rifles of the British Army. This is believed to be the first case of an Indian private small arms company bidding for such a large foreign military contract.
“We have confirmed our decision to participate in UK MoD’s Project Greyburn,” the company announced on social media platform From India to the world.”
The announcement comes as the British Ministry of Defense has issued a concept phase notice for Project Greyburn. Under this programme, the SA80 rifle series which has been in use since the 1980s will be replaced. The SA80 is currently in the L85A3 variant, it has been upgraded from time to time, but the need for a new generation rifle is being felt due to the changing needs of modern warfare, such as modularity, ergonomics, suppressor use, new ammunition standards, NATO interoperability and urban operations.
We have taken a firm decision to pursue participation in the UK MoD’s Project Grayburn.
For some time, this opportunity occupied our mindspace. No longer.
Why make it official?
Because we have successfully delivered to our Indian customers — and actions speak louder than… pic.twitter.com/a54aMHeeZq
— SSS Defense (@sssdefence) February 21, 2026
According to the British Defense Ministry, the new rifles will be manufactured in Britain to strengthen the domestic supply chain, create jobs and increase export opportunities. It is estimated that at least two lakh rifles can be purchased under this contract for a period of 17 years from April 1, 2028 to March 31, 2045.
Five different variants will be developed under Project Greyburn, including standard and short personal defense weapons, generalist and cadet rifles, which will replace the existing SA80A3, L22 carbine and L98 cadet rifles.
Let us tell you that Bengaluru based SSS Defense is an emerging private company amidst India’s defense self-reliance campaign, which specializes in manufacturing multi-caliber modular rifles, advanced optics and accessories. The company has previously provided indigenous upgrade kits for AK-47 rifles to the Indian Army, which improved grip, accuracy and handling.
Additionally, the company has secured several contracts to supply its indigenous P-72 assault rifle based on 7.62×39 mm cartridge to various state police special task forces.
By publicly announcing its participation in Project Greyburn, SSS Defense has made clear its ambitions in the global defense market. However, competition is likely to be stiff given the final selection process and UK requirements for domestic manufacturing.
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