Missile Kukri

The kukri originated in the Gorkha Kingdom, with recorded use dating to the 7th century. The design likely evolved from domestic sickles and prehistoric hunting implements, potentially influenced by the ancient Indian nistrimsa or the Greek kopis. The weapon entered Western military records during the Gurkha War of 1814–1816.

The weapon features a recurved blade designed for chopping and draw cuts. Its forward-weighted balance increases impact force. Blades are forged from spring steel, utilizing a hard, tempered edge and a softer spine to maintain sharpness while managing impact shock. Construction methods include hollow forging or the integration of single, double, or triple fullers to reduce weight. The hilt is secured via a tang, which may be partial, full, or a slab configuration. Handles are constructed from materials such as hardwood, buffalo horn, or metal, and often feature a flared butt for retention. A notch at the base of the blade serves as a fluid diverter to keep the grip dry and as a reference point for sharpening. The standard assembly includes a scabbard containing the primary blade and two secondary tools: the karda for utility and the chakmak for edge maintenance.

The kukri is the national weapon of Nepal and is standard issue for the Nepali Army. It is deployed within the Indian Army by the Assam Rifles, the Kumaon Regiment, the Garhwal Rifles, and Gorkha regiments. Internationally, the weapon is used by the Brigade of Gurkhas in the British Army and the Gurkha Contingent of the Singapore Police Force. Combat use is documented in both World Wars, the 1962 and 1967 Sino-Indian Wars, the Indo-Pakistani Wars, the Falklands War, and the Kargil War. It has seen continued operational use during the War in Afghanistan. Military personnel are issued two units for ceremonial and exercise roles. Beyond combat, the weapon is utilized for agriculture, brush clearing, and survival tasks.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom • 🇮🇳 India • 🇳🇵 Nepal • 🇸🇬 Singapore