CQB Carbines and Heavyweight Torpedoes to Strengthen India’s Land and Maritime Combat Readiness
In a significant push towards defence modernisation and operational preparedness, the Ministry of Defence has signed procurement contracts worth ₹4,666 crore . The agreements cover the induction of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines for frontline troops and Heavyweight Torpedoes for submarines, reflecting a balanced focus on both land and maritime combat capabilities.
CQB Carbines for Army and Navy
Under the first contract, more than 4.25 lakh CQB Carbines , valued at ₹2,770 crore , will be inducted into the Indian Army and the Indian Navy . The carbines will be supplied by Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd. These indigenously developed weapons are intended to replace ageing small arms and significantly enhance infantry lethality in close-combat situations such as urban warfare, counter-terrorism operations and ship-borne security duties.
Operational Advantages and Indigenisation
The CQB Carbine is designed with a compact profile, high rate of fire and improved accuracy, making it effective in confined and high-intensity combat environments. Its induction marks an important milestone under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, highlighting the growing role of private industry in defence manufacturing. The programme is also expected to generate employment and strengthen MSMEs within the defence supply chain.
Heavyweight Torpedoes for Submarine Fleet
The second contract, worth about ₹1,896 crore , has been signed with WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L. for the supply of 48 Heavyweight Torpedoes . These torpedoes will be integrated into the Kalvari Class submarines of the Indian Navy under Project-75. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in April 2028 and conclude by early 2030 . Equipped with advanced guidance and propulsion systems, the torpedoes will significantly enhance India’s underwater warfare capability.
Important Facts for Exams
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CQB Carbines are designed for close-quarter and urban combat operations
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Kalvari Class submarines are part of Project-75 based on the Scorpène design
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Aatmanirbhar Bharat emphasises indigenous defence production
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Heavyweight torpedoes are primary anti-ship and anti-submarine weapons
Rising Defence Capital Acquisitions
With these contracts, capital acquisition agreements signed by the Ministry in FY 2025–26 have reached ₹1,82,492 crore , underscoring a sustained policy thrust towards modern weapons induction, reduced import dependence and enhanced national security preparedness.
Month: Current Affairs - January 04, 2026
Category: Defence & Security | Indigenisation of Defence