Both weapons should be compatible with accessories like sound suppressor, optical sights, laser aiming devices and tactical torch, besides being able to operate in sub-zero temperatures and high humidity conditions. The Garud force, at present, uses the Austrian Glock-17 9mm pistol and the Israeli Tavor TAR-21 5.56 mm assault rifle as standard issue personal weapons, besides some other weapons in varying numbers like the Galil sniper rifle, Negev light machine gun, AK-47 assault rifle and Beretta pistol. The IAF had sought bids for new pistols and submachine guns in the past from global vendors but the procurement process continued to hang fire. Raised in September 2004, the Garud special force is tasked with the protection of critical Air Force bases and installations, counter terrorism, special reconnaissance, establishing airbases in hostile territory, suppression of enemy air defences and destruction of enemy assets, guide air strikes through laser designators and search and rescue missions.