Question : DEFECTS IN WEAPON SYSTEMS

(a) the details of defects and deficiencies found by the Army in various vital weapons and ammunition produced indigenously by the ordnance factories;

(b) the details of study,if any,conducted to ascertain reasons for manufacturing of sub-standard weapons and ammunition including explosives by the ordnance factories and its effect on morale and striking power of the Army;

(c) whether the Government proposes to set up a mechanism to go into the defects and deficiencies in arms and ammunition and carry out modifications required to maintain high standards of production of defence equipment and weapon system;and

(d) if so,the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE PRODUCTION(RAO INDERJIT SINGH)

(a) Ordnance Factories produce arms and ammunitions as per laid down specifications and supply to Army only after inspection and acceptance by DGQA (Designated Quality Assurance Agency). Whenever defects are pointed out by the armed forces in weapons and ammunition there is an established mechanism to conduct a detailed defect investigation and rectify the defects.Defect rectification is taken up on priority.It may not be possible to furnish details due to security considerations.

(b) As indicated in (a) above a detailed defect investigation is conducted by the DGQA in association with the user and the factory concerned.It may not be possible to provide any information on the impact on the morale or striking power of the Army due to reasons of security.

(c) & (d): In addition to the mechanism for defect rectification,Ordnance Factories are taking action on a regular basis for continual improvement of products by upgradation of technology, induction of better materials as well as upgradation of quality management.It may not be possible to furnish the details due to security considerations.