SSS Defence Viper
SSS Defence · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2019
Also known as: SSS Viper, Viper 308
Overview
The SSS Defence Viper is an indigenous Indian bolt-action sniper rifle chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester), designed and manufactured by SSS Defence, a Bengaluru-based private defense company. First unveiled at DefExpo 2019, the Viper is a heavy-barreled, manually operated precision rifle capable of sub-MOA accuracy with match-grade ammunition. The rifle features an aluminum alloy receiver coated with cerakote and black oxide, a free-floating heavy bull barrel available in 24, 26, or 27-inch lengths with a right-hand twist rate of 1:11.25 inches, and a fully adjustable folding rear stock with adjustable cheekpiece and length of pull. Weighing approximately 7 kilograms, the Viper has a proven effective range exceeding 1,000 meters and can be conveniently disassembled into major components for compact transport during operations requiring flexibility.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 7000 g (246.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 7300 g (257.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1200 mm (47.24") |
| Barrel Length | 660 mm (25.98") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 850 m/s (2789 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3368 J (2484 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1000 m (1094 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3000 m (3281 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 286 mm (11.26") |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Aluminum |
| Finish | Cerakote |
Calibers
- 7.62x51mm NATO · primary · 7.62mm NATO — also known as 7.62x51mm, 7.62 NATO, .308 Winchester
Features
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Bolt Safety
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Heavy Bull Barrel, Adjustable Stock, Adjustable Cheekpiece, Adjustable Length Of Pull, Bipod, Picatinny Rail, Muzzle Brake, Cerakote Finish, Black Oxide Receiver, Tool Free Disassembly, Multiple Barrel Lengths
Service history
Operators
- National Security Guard · as Viper
Production
Production years: 2019-present
Manufactured by SSS Defence in Bengaluru, India. Early production for evaluation and limited military/law enforcement orders.
Origin
Country of origin: India
Notes
The Viper is one of India's first indigenously designed and manufactured precision sniper rifles from the private sector, developed as part of India's Make in India defense initiative. SSS Defence designed the Viper to be compatible with the body structures of Indian soldiers, a consideration often overlooked when adopting foreign sniper systems. The rifle competed in India's National Security Guard sniper competition and outperformed several foreign competitors. The multiple barrel length options (24, 26, and 27 inches) allow configuration for different operational roles from urban to long-range field engagements.
Background
The Viper made headlines when an Indian NSG team using the rifle outperformed competitors armed with established Western sniper platforms at a national competition, validating India's growing indigenous small arms manufacturing capability.