IAF seeks new high-power sniper rifle for its Garud special forces

The Indian Air Force is seeking a new sniper rifle for its Garud Special Forces. The service has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for a rifle chambered for the 12.7x99mm (.50 BMG) round. This would provide the elite Air Force unit with the ability to engage targets at extended ranges. The Garuds currently use the Galil sniper rifle, which has an effective range of around 800 metres. A rifle firing the 12.7x99mm round would nearly double that engagement distance.The powerful .50 BMG round would also enable the Air Force's special forces unit to engage targets such as lightly armoured vehicles, radar arrays, and other unarmoured vehicles or equipment in what is known as the anti-material role.The RFI also seeks additional equipment to accompany the rifle, including a sound suppressor, a day telescopic sight, and a thermal imaging scope.