Defence Deal on CQB Carbines & Heavyweight Torpedoes
Context:
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed two major contracts worth a total of ₹4,666 crore to modernize the armed forces' arsenal.
Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines:
A contract worth ₹2,770 crore was signed for the procurement of over 4.25 lakh CQB Carbines.
The contract was awarded to Indian firms Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd
This will boost the Make in India initiative.
These weapons will equip the Indian Army and Indian Navy, replacing legacy small arms.
The CQB Carbine is designed for close combat, featuring a compact design and a high rate of fire
This ensures decisive lethality in confined spaces.
Heavyweight Torpedoes:
A contract worth ₹1,896 crore was signed for 48 Heavyweight Torpedoes.
The deal was signed with WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L., Italy.
These torpedoes will be integrated into the Indian Navy's Kalvari Class (Project-75) submarines to enhance their underwater warfare capabilities.
The delivery is scheduled to commence in April 2028 and complete by early 2030.
Significance:
The carbine deal empowers indigenous defence industries and MSMEs by encouraging local component manufacturing.
These acquisitions aim to meet evolving operational requirements with niche technologies and advanced weapon capabilities.