Defence Contracts Boost Armed Forces Modernisation

The Ministry of Defence has signed defence procurement contracts worth ₹4,666 crore, reinforcing India’s drive towards modernisation and operational readiness. The agreements cover the induction of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines for frontline troops and Heavyweight Torpedoes for submarines, reflecting a dual focus on land and maritime combat capabilities.

CQB Carbines for Army and Navy

Under the first contract, over 4.25 lakh CQB Carbines, valued at ₹2,770 crore, will be inducted into the Indian Army and the Indian Navy. The weapons will be supplied by Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd. These indigenously developed carbines are intended to replace ageing small arms and enhance infantry lethality in close-combat scenarios, including urban and counter-terrorism operations.

Operational Advantages and Indigenisation

The CQB Carbine features a compact build, high rate of fire, and improved accuracy, making it suitable for confined-space engagements. Its induction marks a significant milestone under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. The programme also highlights deeper collaboration between the government and private industry, with positive spillover effects for employment generation, MSMEs, and the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Heavyweight Torpedoes for Submarine Fleet

A second contract, worth around ₹1,896 crore, has been signed with WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L. for 48 Heavyweight Torpedoes. These will be integrated into the Indian Navy’s Kalvari Class submarines. Delivery is scheduled to begin in April 2028 and conclude by early 2030. The torpedoes, equipped with advanced guidance and propulsion systems, are expected to substantially enhance underwater warfare capabilities.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• CQB Carbines are designed for close-quarter and urban combat operations.
• Kalvari Class submarines are part of Project-75, based on Scorpène design.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat emphasises indigenous defence production.
• Heavyweight torpedoes are primary anti-ship and anti-submarine weapons.

Rising Defence Capital Acquisitions

With these contracts, capital acquisition agreements signed by the Ministry in FY 2025–26 have reached ₹1,82,492 crore. This reflects a sustained policy thrust towards inducting advanced technologies while reducing dependence on imports, aligning India’s defence preparedness with evolving regional and global security challenges.