Bharat Forge Wins Indian Army Tender for 400,000 CQB Carbines: What This Means for Defense Manufacturing

New Delhi: Bharat Forge, part of Kalyani Strategic Systems, has just become the top bidder for the Indian Army’s contract to supply over 400,000 close-quarter battle (CQB) carbines. This deal could be worth about ₹2,000 crore.

The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) recently announced that its 5.56×45 mm CQB carbine was chosen as the leading option for the Army’s request. This selection is a significant step for India’s self-reliance in defense technology.

If all goes well, Bharat Forge will start manufacturing these carbines based on DRDO’s design. The Indian Army had a clear requirement in 2022 for 425,213 units of these carbines, emphasizing products made under the “Buy (Indian)” initiative. This initiative aims to encourage local manufacturing by setting specific criteria for indigenous content.

To qualify under this category, products must be designed, developed, and manufactured in India with at least 50% indigenous content based on cost. Alternatively, items with 60% indigenous content can qualify, regardless of where the design originated.

Understanding CQB Carbines

The CQB carbine has distinct features tailored for urban warfare and counter-terrorism. It is lighter and more manageable than traditional rifles, allowing soldiers to operate effectively in confined spaces. The carbine has an effective range of at least 200 meters and comes with a bayonet that has a blade length of at least 120 mm, ensuring versatility in combat.

An interesting insight comes from military experts like Brigadier General (Retd.) R.K. Tewari, who notes that modern combat requires weapons that offer mobility and adaptability. He states, “In urban scenarios, agility is key. A lighter weapon allows soldiers to navigate more efficiently in tight environments.”

Recent statistics reflect a growing trend in strengthening manufacturing in India. According to a report by the Ministry of Defence, the defense manufacturing sector has seen a 15% increase in local production over the last two years, highlighting India’s intent to reduce dependency on foreign imports.

Social media is buzzing about this selection too. Users are expressing pride in India’s defense capabilities, with hashtags like #MakeInIndia trending. Many see this as a turning point for enhancing self-sufficiency in military supplies.

Overall, the move to procure these CQB carbines marks a crucial leap forward in India’s defense strategy, underlining the importance of indigenous technology and local manufacturing in meeting national security needs.

Source link