The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has made an exciting announcement: Bharat Forge Limited (BFL) has secured a contract worth Rs 1,661 crores to supply over 2.55 lakh Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines to the Indian Army. This deal, signed recently, aims to deliver the weapons within five years.
The CQB Carbine is a compact firearm developed collaboratively by Pune’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and Bharat Forge. This initiative is part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, which focuses on making India self-reliant in defense production. BFL emphasizes its commitment to providing the Indian Armed Forces with advanced, locally-made equipment.
According to the MoD, the CQB Carbine enhances modern infantry capabilities. Its lightweight design and high firing rate make it ideal for close combat situations, especially in urban environments. This contract not only boosts national defense but also stimulates the economy. It encourages local manufacturing and creates job opportunities through collaboration with Indian MSMEs for components and raw materials.
The carbine itself is designed to be effective in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations. Weighing under 3.3 kg, it has an effective range of 200 meters. One standout feature is its ability to fire both NATO and INSAS ammunition. Its reliability stems from advanced technologies, including forged steel and metal injection molding.
This development aligns with a broader trend in defense manufacturing in India. Recent statistics indicate that India’s defense production has grown significantly, with an increase of 16% in 2022 compared to the previous year. As nations worldwide shift towards self-reliance in defense, India’s focus on domestic production places it squarely in the global industry landscape.
Overall, the partnership between the government and private sector in this project paves the path for future innovations and strengthens national security while supporting the economy.
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Close Quarter Battle Carbine, Bharat Forge contract, Ministry of Defence India, Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, indigenously developed weapons, 5
