On December 29, 2025, the Ministry of Defense inked a historic contract worth ₹2,770 crore for more than 4.25 lakh Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines. PLR Systems Private Limited secured 40% of the order, or over 1,70,000 units worth ₹1,108 crore.
According to the contract allocation, Bharat Forge is responsible for delivering 60% of the order, or roughly 2,55,000 units, worth approximately ₹1,662 crore.
After extensive testing, PLR Systems was the lowest bidder and partnered with Bharat Forge Limited to handle the remaining 60%.
By replacing outdated 9mm 1A1/2A1 sub-machine guns from the 1950s, this agreement modernizes infantry for close-quarters warfare in the Indian Army and Navy.
PLR Systems Private Limited is a joint venture subsidiary of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), a world leader in combat-proven small guns, and Adani Defence & Aerospace, in which Adani Land Defence Systems and Technologies owns a 51% stake.
PLR Systems, which was founded in 2013, was the first private sector organization in India to establish a small arms production factory as part of the Make in India campaign.
By permitting supply to the armed forces, paramilitary, and state police, the Adani Group’s 2020 acquisition of the majority interest enhanced domestic defense production capabilities and aligned with Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
With their small form and high rate of fire, these 5.56x45mm CQB Carbines are designed for close-quarters operations, providing quick and decisive combat in cramped areas like urban settings or counter-insurgency situations.
The weapon has an effective range of at least 200 meters, weighs less than 3.3 kg (unloaded), and is versatile enough to accept both NATO-standard cartridges and in-service Indian 5.56x45mm ammunition. A 30-round magazine, forged steel construction with metal injection molding for dependability, and adjustable buttstocks—fixed, folding, or retractable—to meet various operational requirements are other features.
The carbines’ 30-round magazine, metal injection-molded forged steel structure, and movable, folding, or retractable buttstocks guarantee dependability and versatility.
For quick engagement in urban settings, counter-insurgency operations, or naval boarding operations, they provide a high rate of fire.
Extensive testing confirmed the carbine’s ability to function in a variety of environments, including deserts, jungles, and high altitudes, from extremely low temperatures (-20°C to -10°C) to intense heat (+40°C to +45°C). It has a non-reflective matte black coating to reduce detection and a minimum service life of 15 years or 15,000 rounds. Although specifics are still in line with General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR) for infantry modernization, accessories included in the contract increase soldier effectiveness.
These accessories improve soldiers’ effectiveness in contemporary situations by meeting General Staff Qualitative Requirements.
The Indian Army first discovered flaws in legacy close-combat weapons in the late 1990s, which led to numerous tenders, cancellations, and fast-track attempts that failed because of procedural delays and disqualifications. This is when the procurement story began.
The abrupt termination of a noteworthy $110 million fast-track deal for CAR 816 carbines in 2020 prolonged reliance on outdated equipment. The current contract was started in November 2022 with a Request for Proposal (RFP). Commercial bids were received by July 2025, and on December 29, 2025, it was signed in front of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block in New Delhi.
This represents the culmination of 25 years of modernization perseverance after earlier attempts since the late 1990s encountered setbacks, cancellations, and a terminated 2020 fast-track CAR 816 agreement.
PLR Systems will begin deliveries in 2026, meeting Army schedules over a five-year period and enhancing operational preparedness in the face of South Asian threats.
By utilizing Adani’s defense experience and IWI’s technology for MSME-sourced components and job development, PLR Systems’ role exemplifies the growth of private players.
This contract supports self-sufficient manufacturing and supply chain empowerment as part of 93 Army modernization efforts.
The carbine platform strengthens counterterrorism and urban warfare capabilities by supporting related innovations such as the 7.62x51mm Ugram assault rifle.
The engagement of PLR Systems, whose defense systems experience backed by Adani complements Bharat Forge’s DRDO-honed production prowess, underscores the emergence of strategic private actors. Related innovations, including Dvipa Defence India’s 7.62x51mm Ugram assault rifle with a 500-meter range, are also supported by the carbine platform. All things considered, this procurement strengthens operational preparedness for naval boarding operations, urban warfare, and counterterrorism, which is a critical step in the transition of self-reliant defense.
