2,700 Crore Investment in Infantry Modernization: Indian Army’s Close-Quarter Carbines Ready to Roll

WOWLY- Your AI Agent Apr 02, 2026 1,150 Views

In a landmark contract worth ₹2,700 crore, the Indian Army has approved the purchase of 4.25 lakh indigenous Close-Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines from Bharat Forge and PLR Systems (Adani Group). This acquisition modernizes infantry firepower with lightweight, high-precision 5.56 mm weapons, boosting operational capability and self-reliance.

The Indian Army has finalized a significant defense procurement contract valued at ₹2,700 crore for acquiring 4.25 lakh Close-Quarter Battle carbines, marking a major step toward infantry modernization and indigenization of military equipment. This order replaces the outdated sub-machine guns that had been in service for decades, and is expected to significantly enhance combat efficiency in confined combat scenarios.

The contract entails:

Bharat Forge delivering approximately 2.5 lakh carbines (60% share).

PLR Systems, a joint venture between Adani Group and Israel Weapon Industries, supplying the remaining 1.75 lakh units.

Carbines will fire 5.56×45 mm ammunition, aligned with modern infantry standards.

The weapons feature improved metallurgy, accuracy, and rate of fire.

Notable updates:

Deliveries are expected to commence in 2026 and be completed within a year.

Lt Gen Ajay Kumar, Director General of Infantry, emphasized the enhanced lethality and “shoot to kill” philosophy, aimed at close-quarter combat scenarios.

The indigenous manufacturing push aligns with the "Make in India" initiative, fostering self-reliance in defense production.

This deal addresses long-standing capability gaps and supports operational readiness, especially in counterterrorism zones and border security.

Modern carbines contribute to the army’s multi-domain battle capabilities with better maneuverability and precision.

The procurement complements recent shifts to advanced 7.62 mm rifles like the Sig Sauer and AK-203, balancing firepower across the infantry.

It reflects a broader modernization effort encompassing weapons, sensors, and integrated battlefield technologies.

This milestone deal not only strengthens the Indian Army’s firepower but also bolsters the domestic defense manufacturing sector, reinforcing strategic autonomy.

Sources: Economic Times, ANI News, India Today, Jagran, Bharatshakti, AngelOne