Defence Ministry clears ₹4,666 crore arms deals for Army, Navy modernisation

New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has approved two major defence deals to enhance the combat capabilities of the Army and Navy. On Tuesday, the ministry finalized deals worth ₹4,666 crore with two Indian companies for the purchase of more than 4.25 lakh Close-Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines. Additionally, 48 heavy torpedoes for Scorpene or Kalvari-class submarines will also be purchased from an Italian company. This procurement will promote the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision and provide modern weapons to Indian soldiers.

The contracts were signed on Tuesday at the Ministry of Defence, South Block, in New Delhi, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. These contracts are for the Indian Army and the Indian Navy. According to the agreement, a contract worth ₹2,770 crore has been signed with Bharat Forge Limited and PLR Systems (a joint venture of Adani Defence and Israel Weapon Industries) for the purchase of more than 4.25 lakh CQB carbines. Bharat Forge will manufacture 60% of these carbines, while the rest will be made by PLR Systems. The Army and Navy will receive these carbines over the next five years.

Why are CQB carbines special?

The Ministry of Defence said that this is a major achievement in providing world-class weapons to Indian soldiers, which will replace older weapons. These CQB carbines are very effective for fighting in confined spaces. Their compact size and high rate of fire make them special. This deal reflects the synergy between the government and the private sector and will further strengthen the 'Make in India' initiative.

Navy to receive 48 Black Shark torpedoes

The Ministry of Defence has also signed another agreement for the procurement of heavy-weight torpedoes at an estimated cost of ₹1,896 crore. Under this agreement, 48 "Black Shark" heavy torpedoes will be procured for the Navy's six Kalvari-class or Scorpène submarines. This deal has been finalized with Italy's WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L. These torpedoes will enhance the submarines' firepower.

The delivery of these 48 torpedoes will begin in April 2028 and will be completed by the beginning of 2030. These torpedoes, due to their advanced technology and capabilities, will significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the Kalvari-class submarines.