Indian Army close-quarter battle carbines: The Indian Army has made a big decision about its close-quarter battle (CQB) weapon project. the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Forge, which is a private company in India, have become the lowest bidder, or what the military calls “L1,” for the project. This means they gave the best offer for what the Army needed, and now they are set to make these weapons for the soldiers.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), DRDO said, “Significantly boosting #atmanirbharta in critical technology, 5.56×45 mm CQB Carbine, designed and developed by Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), DRDO selected as L1 in Indian Army Request for Proposal (RFP).” This is a big achievement for India’s goal of becoming self-reliant in defence equipment.
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Back in 2022, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said that the Army needs 4,25,213 of these CQB Carbines. These are not regular rifles they are smaller and lighter, meant for use in cities or tight spaces where soldiers need to move fast and fight at close range. These carbines will help Indian soldiers during counter-terrorism missions and other operations that happen in crowded or urban areas.
These weapons must be bought under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ rule. That means they must be made in India, either fully or mostly. There are two conditions under this rule. First, if the weapon is completely designed, developed, and made in India, then at least 50% of its cost must come from Indian parts and work. Second, if the weapon design came from outside India but is still made here, then it must have at least 60% Indian content in terms of cost reported Indian Express.
New Weapon Features
The new 5.56 x 45 mm CQB Carbine is made to meet strict needs. Its shooting range must be at least 200 meters. The Army also wants a bayonet that is at least 120mm long and comes with a proper cover. Even the weight of the carbine is carefully planned it must not be more than 3 kilograms, with a little room for extra, up to 10% more.
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The reason for all this is clear. These carbines are not for long-distance fights but for fast, close-in actions. That’s why they must be easy to carry, quick to use, and light enough for a soldier to handle even in tough and tight areas. Regular rifles are heavier and longer, so carbines give better control when moving quickly or going through small doors and narrow spaces.
