Defence ministry inks contracts for battle carbines, torpedoes

• The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth a total cost of Rs 4,666 crore for the procurement of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbine and Heavy Weight Torpedoes on December 30. 

• In the financial year 2025-26, the ministry has signed capital contracts amounting to Rs 1,82,492 crore for the modernisation of the Armed Forces.

CQB Carbine

• The contract for over 4.25 lakh CQB Carbine along with accessories, worth Rs 2,770 crore, for the Indian Army and the Indian Navy were signed with Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd. 

• As a cornerstone of the modern infantry arsenal, the CQB Carbine provides a critical edge in close combat through its compact design and high rate of fire, ensuring rapid, decisive lethality in confined spaces. 

• The contract highlights the synergy between the government and the private sector which will further give impetus to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. 

• This project will also play a pivotal role in boosting the overall economy, increasing employment avenues and will also empower indigenous defence industries by encouraging Indian MSMEs through components’ manufacturing and raw material supply.

Heavy Weight Torpedoes

• The contract for the procurement and integration of 48 Heavy Weight Torpedoes along with associated equipment for Kalvari Class Submarines (P-75) of the Indian Navy at an approximate cost of Rs 1,896 crore was signed with WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L., Italy.

• The acquisition will enhance the combat capability of the six Kalvari Class submarines. 

• The delivery of torpedoes will commence from April 2028 and will be completed by early 2030.

• These torpedoes have significant operational capabilities and advanced technological features.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)