India Boosts Infantry Firepower With 425K Carbines And 380 Drone Platoons

Image Source: Hindustan Times

The Indian government has signed a ₹27,770 crore deal to procure 4.25 lakh modern close-quarter battle carbines and raise 380 specialist drone platoons under Project Ashni. The move marks a major leap in infantry modernization, replacing outdated weapons and enhancing tactical capabilities across the armed forces.

Modernizing the battlefield with new carbines

In a landmark defense upgrade, the Indian Army will receive 425,000 new 5.56 x 45mm close-quarter battle (CQB) carbines under a ₹27,770 crore contract signed with Bharat Forge and PLR Systems. These carbines will replace decades-old submachine guns based on 1940s designs, addressing a long-standing need for modern infantry weapons.

Deliveries are scheduled to begin in September 2026 and conclude by 2028. Bharat Forge, a subsidiary of Kalyani Strategic Systems, will supply 60% of the order, while PLR Systems—a joint venture between Adani Group and Israel Weapon Industries—will deliver the remaining 40%. The carbines are designed for high mobility and precision in urban and close-combat scenarios.

Drone platoons under Project Ashni

Alongside the carbine deal, the Army has completed the raising of 380 specialist drone platoons under Project Ashni. These units will enhance surveillance, reconnaissance, and tactical strike capabilities, especially in border and high-altitude regions. The drone platoons are part of a broader modernization strategy that includes deploying 25 Bhairav light commando battalions over the next six months.

Lieutenant General Ajay Kumar, Director General of Infantry, emphasized that these upgrades will significantly improve operational readiness and battlefield agility. The combined investment reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing and advanced warfare technologies.

Key highlights from India’s defense modernization

- Government signs ₹27,770 crore deal for 425,000 CQB carbines
- Carbines to replace outdated submachine guns from the 1940s
- Bharat Forge and PLR Systems selected as suppliers
- Deliveries to begin in September 2026 and end by 2028
- Army raises 380 drone platoons under Project Ashni
- Drones to support surveillance and tactical operations
- 25 Bhairav light commando battalions to be deployed soon
- Upgrades aim to boost infantry mobility and precision

Sources: Hindustan Times, India Sentinels, New Indian Express