Defence Ministry signs over Rs 4,666-crore deals for procurement of combat carbines, torpedoes

The contract for over 4.25 lakh CQB Carbine along with accessories, worth Rs 2,770 crore, for Indian Army and Navy was signed with Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd. The contract for procurement and integration of 48 he­avyweight torpedoes, along with associated equipment for Kalvari-class submarines of the Navy at an approximate cost of Rs 1,896 crore, was signed with WASS Submarine Systems SRL, Italy.

According to Defence Ministry, the long-due deal signed to procure CQB Carbines will equip soldiers with “world-class lethal­ity, replacing legacy systems with cutting-edge indigenous technology under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.”

“As a cornerstone of the mod­­ern infantry arsenal, the CQB Carbine provides a critical edge in close combat through its compact design and high rate of fire, ensuring rapid, decisive lethality in confined spaces,” the Ministry said in a statement.

It added that the contract highlights the synergy between the government and the private sector, which will give impetus to the Make-in-India initiative.

“This project will also play a pivotal role in boosting overall economy, increasing employment avenues and will also empower indigenous defence industries by encouraging Indian MSMEs through components’ manufacturing and raw material supply,” it said.

The acquisition and integration of torpedoes along with associated equipment for Kalvari-class Submarines (P-75) of the Navy will enhance combat capability of six submarines, the Ministry said, adding that delivery will start from April 2028 and will be completed by early 2030.