MoD signs Rs 4,666-crore deal to buy 4.25 lakh carbines, torpedoes

The Italian-origin torpedoes will be used to arm the Kalvari-class submarines of the Navy.

The MoD inked two separate contracts for the two products.

One contract is for over 4.25 lakh CQB carbines along with accessories, worth Rs 2,770 crore. The two suppliers will be Bharat Forge and PLR Systems – a joint venture between the Israel Weapon Industries and the Adani Group.

The contracts were inked in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block.

The MoD said this was part of an extraordinary, persistent effort to equip Indian soldiers with world-class lethality, replacing legacy systems with cutting edge indigenous technology under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.

As a cornerstone of the modern infantry arsenal, the carbine provides a critical-edge in close combat through its compact design and high rate of fire, ensuring rapid, decisive lethality in confined spaces.

The contract highlights the synergy between the government and the private sector which will further give impetus to the 'Make in India' initiative.

The contract for the procurement and integration of 48 heavyweight torpedoes along with associated equipment for the Kalvari-class submarines (P-75) of the Navy at an approximate cost of Rs 1,896 crore was signed with WASS Submarine Systems SRL, Italy. The acquisition will enhance the combat capability of the six Kalvari-class submarines. The delivery of torpedoes will commence in April 2028 and will be completed by early 2030.

These torpedoes have significant operational capabilities and advanced technological features. The acquisition underscores the government’s commitment to meet the operational requirements of the Navy through the induction of niche technologies and advanced capability weapons.