The Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision is deeply embedded in India’s defence space and through various contracts and deals, the armed forces are increasing indigenous weapons to their arsenal. Taking yet another step in the direction, the Indian Army has inked a landmark defence contract worth Rs 2,772 crore with Bharat Forge and PLR Systems.
As part of this deal, the Army would procure 4.25 lakh indigenous Close Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines. The move marks a major step in India’s efforts to strengthen its infantry and promote self-reliance in defence production. The deal structure is such that Bharat Forge will handle 60% of the production, while PLR Systems will manufacture the remaining 40%.
Both companies are expected to begin deliveries by September next year, significantly accelerating the Army’s small-arms modernisation drive.
CQB carbines for Army: How does this support ‘Make in India’?
This agreement represents one of the largest indigenous small-arms contracts in Indian defence history. By partnering with domestic manufacturers, the Indian Army is not only replacing its outdated 9x19mm Sterling carbines but also reinforcing the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) vision.
The deal ensures that the bulk of the production and technology stays within India—boosting local industry, creating jobs, and enhancing defence manufacturing capabilities.
What makes these CQB carbines special?
The new Close Quarter Battle carbines are designed to be lightweight, compact, and highly manoeuvrable, tailored for urban warfare and counterterror operations. They are compatible with modern tactical accessories, including optical sights and tactical lights; suppressors for stealth operations; enhanced ergonomic design for improved handling.
With these upgrades, soldiers can expect greater accuracy, faster target engagement, along with improved survivability in close-quarters environments.
These assault rifles are jointly developed by DRDO and Bharat Forge for the Indian Armed Forces. The weapon is intended to serve operational needs in urban warfare and counter-insurgency missions, where existing assault rifles may be less effective due to their size.
According to DRDO, the CQB carbines weigh approximately 3.3 kilograms and have an effective range of 200 meters. It can fire both NATO-standard and INSAS ammunition. It is a highly potent weapon for our infantry soldiers. Further, their ability to accommodate different ammunition types places it in a class of its own.
What does this procurement mean for infantry modernisation?
Commenting on the deal, Lieutenant General Ajay Kumar, Director General, Infantry, said, “The modernisation of Infantry forces is progressing across multiple domains—lethality, mobility, battlefield transparency, situational awareness, survivability, and training.”
He emphasised that the introduction of indigenous CQB carbines will help the Army evolve and transform with the changing demands of modern warfare.
This acquisition also marks a pivotal moment in India’s ongoing quest for defence self-sufficiency. By equipping troops with homegrown, world-class weaponry, the Indian Army is ensuring that its infantry remains agile, lethal, and future-ready, while simultaneously fuelling the growth of India’s defence industrial base.