New Delhi: In a boost to tackle urban warfare and carry out counter-insurgency operations, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Forge have jointly developed a new Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbine for the Indian Armed Forces. The weapon is intended to serve operational needs where existing assault rifles may be less effective due to their size.
The carbine is the result of collaboration between DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, and private-sector manufacturer Bharat Forge. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) had earlier issued an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 4,25,213 units of 5.56 x 45mm CQB Carbines in 2022.
“This weapon has been designed by DRDO’s ARDE, Pune, and is being manufactured by Bharat Forge,” said Prateek Kishore, Scientist and Director General of Armament & Combat Engineering Systems (ACE), DRDO. “It’s a clear case of full synergy between the development agency and the manufacturing partner, which has contributed to the successful realisation of this system. It’s an extremely proud moment not just for DRDO, but for the country as a whole.”
The CQB Carbine is designed for rapid response in close-range combat scenarios such as counter-terrorism operations, building clearances, and engagements in dense or urban areas. The compact design improves mobility and response time during missions where standard assault rifles may not be suitable.
After rigorous tests including performance at international standards, the carbine is considered ready for infantry deployment. According to DRDO, the weapon weighs approximately 3.3 kilograms and has an effective range of 200 meters. It can fire both NATO-standard and INSAS ammunition.
“It is a highly potent weapon for our infantry soldiers,” Kishore said. “Its ability to accommodate different ammunition types places it in a class of its own.”
The weapon is equipped with a short barrel and modern ergonomic features, making it easier to use in confined areas. It also includes a 30-round curved magazine for consistent ammunition feeding during rapid fire.
The carbine represents India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen indigenous defence production through collaboration between research institutions and private manufacturers. This development marks a step forward in meeting the Indian Armed Forces’ long-standing requirement for a lightweight, efficient weapon system suited for modern combat environments.
