The Indian Army announced a landmark ₹2,770 crore contract with Bharat Forge’s subsidiary Kalyani Strategic Systems and Adani Group’s PLR Systems to procure 4.25 lakh Close Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines. This contract, split 60:40 between Bharat Forge and PLR Systems, is part of one of the Army’s longest-pending modernization efforts, ending a nearly 25-year saga of delays and cancellations. The weapons, designed jointly by DRDO and Bharat Forge, chambered in 5.56×45 mm NATO rounds, will replace the vintage 9mm Sterling rifles in service since the 1950s. Deliveries are expected to begin from September 2026 and will be completed within a year thereafter. Bharat Forge emphasized its commitment to supporting India’s defence modernization and Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiatives. The company highlighted that it qualified as the lowest bidder after rigorous trials and submitted its commercial bid in July 2025, with the contract finalization process ongoing as of October 2025. Bharat Forge assured timely delivery aligned with the Indian Army’s plans and expressed pride in contributing substantially to the modernization of the Infantry’s close-combat capabilities. This procurement is part of a broader infantry transformation program enhancing lethality, mobility, situational awareness, and survivability, reinforcing India’s push for indigenous defence production and cutting-edge tactical weaponry for contemporary combat challenges. The announcement was timed ahead of Infantry Day on October 27, 2025, underscoring its strategic significance.