New Delhi: The Indian Army is set to begin inducting Close Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines from 2026, following the finalisation of a major procurement contract worth Rs 27,770 crore. The deal covers the purchase of 4.25 lakh CQB carbines aimed at replacing and modernising small arms across infantry units.

Lieutenant General Ajay Kumar, Director General, Infantry, said defence firms have been given strict timelines for delivery. “Companies must supply the entire consignment within two years,” he told reporters on Wednesday, highlighting the urgency of the fast-track modernisation drive.

The contract, signed last month, involves Bharat Forge — a unit of Kalyani Strategic Systems — and PLR Systems, a joint venture between the Adani Group and Israel Weapon Industries (IWI). The new procurement will standardise 5.56×45mm CQB carbines for army use.

Under the agreement, Bharat Forge will supply 60 per cent of the order, amounting to 2,55,000 rifles, while PLR Systems will provide the remaining 40 per cent, or 1,70,000 units. The procurement forms a key part of India’s push for Atmanirbharta in defence, blending indigenous production with strategic international partnerships.

Lt Gen Kumar also reflected on the broader strategic vision, saying, “Wars are not fought with borrowed weapons.” He emphasised that the Infantry remains the cutting edge of the Indian Army, and outlined the ongoing shift under the “Decade of Transformation” initiative focusing on modernisation, self-reliance, and human resource excellence.

“The Infantry of tomorrow will be technologically advanced, modular and versatile — capable of fighting and winning in multi-domain environments,” he added.

Drawing lessons from Operation Sindoor, the DG highlighted the critical role of precision, joint operations, and technology-driven warfare. He also discussed the integration of enhanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities in future operations. IANS