India’s defence modernisation drive has reached a major milestone with the creation of the CQB Carbine, a compact, powerful weapon designed for urban warfare and close-quarter combat. This isn’t just a firearm; it’s a bold statement of India’s growing defence capability and technological ambition.
Built through the partnership of DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and Bharat Forge, this carbine symbolises the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Stay with us as we uncover how this innovation is reshaping India’s defence future.
What is the CQB Carbine? Features & Design
The CQB Carbine is a compact, lightweight weapon built to meet the Indian Army’s need for a reliable firearm in tight urban spaces and counter-insurgency missions.
- Calibre: 5.56×45 mm NATO / INSAS compatible, offering flexibility in ammunition.
- Weight: Approximately 3.3 kg, making it easy to handle in rapid manoeuvres.
- Length: Less than 800 mm, optimised for confined spaces and close-quarters.
- Magazine: 30-round curved STANAG-compatible magazine, allowing for interoperability with standard issue ammunition.
- Material: Built using high-strength steel alloy and advanced metal-injection moulded components, ensuring durability under harsh conditions.
- Effective range: Around 200 metres, ideal for close combat scenarios.
This modern close-quarter carbine has been engineered with ergonomics in mind, ensuring ease of use during high-stress operations.
DRDO & Bharat Forge Collaboration: Building India’s CQB Carbine
The indigenous CQB Carbine is the result of a strong public-private partnership between DRDO and Bharat Forge’s Kalyani Strategic Systems. The collaboration highlights the increasing importance of private industry in India’s defence sector, combining technological innovation with large-scale manufacturing capabilities.
Together, these organisations have ensured that the new compact weapon meets the Indian Army’s stringent requirements while promoting indigenous design and production. The project is a symbol of Make in India’s success, supporting the nation’s ambition to reduce dependency on foreign small arms.
CQB Carbine Specifications at a Glance
The CQB Carbine stands out due to its combination of compactness, firepower, and modern engineering. Key features include:
- Dual ammo compatibility: Fires both NATO-standard and Indian INSAS rounds, providing logistical flexibility.
- High durability: Designed to function reliably in extreme climates across India’s varied terrains.
- User-friendly design: Features like ambidextrous controls make it suitable for a wide range of combat situations.
- Low recoil: Enhanced stability during rapid firing, critical in close-quarter engagements.
How the CQB Carbine Enhances the Indian Army’s Close-Combat Strength
The introduction of the CQB Carbine is set to significantly boost the Indian Army’s capabilities in urban and counter-insurgency operations. Here’s how:
- Compact structure: Enables soldiers to navigate narrow alleys, rooms, and complex terrain with ease.
- Quick target acquisition: The carbine’s balanced design allows for faster reaction times in combat.
- Compatibility with modern accessories: Picatinny rails allow for the mounting of optics, lasers, and tactical lights, improving operational flexibility.
- Reliable performance: Built to perform in high-temperature zones, jungles, deserts, and high-altitude regions alike.
CQB Carbine vs Sterling and INSAS Carbines: A Clear Comparison
The CQB Carbine represents a generational leap over legacy weapons like the Sterling submachine gun and the INSAS carbine.
- Weight advantage: Lighter than the Sterling SMG, which weighed around 3.7 kg unloaded.
- Modern materials: Use advanced alloys and polymers, offering a better strength-to-weight ratio.
- Enhanced firepower: The CQB Carbine’s 5.56 mm rounds deliver greater penetration and stopping power compared to the 9 mm Sterling.
- Future-ready design: Modular features allow for future upgrades, including integration of smart sights and digital fire control systems.
CQB Carbine Production & Procurement Plan (2025 Update)
The Indian Army’s tender for over 425,000 CQB Carbines marks one of the largest small arms acquisitions in recent history. Bharat Forge has emerged as the lowest bidder (L1), securing a contract estimated at ₹2,000 crore. The production will take place at Kalyani Strategic Systems‘ facilities, ensuring timely delivery to meet the Army’s operational needs.
The procurement process highlights the government’s focus on streamlining defence acquisitions and boosting indigenous manufacturing. Large-scale deployment of this carbine will phase out outdated weapons and standardise the Army’s small arms inventory.
Why CQB Carbine is a Milestone in Atmanirbhar Bharat Defence Drive
The CQB Carbine is more than just a weapon; it is a symbol of India’s strides towards self-reliance in defence technology.
- 100% indigenous design: Developed entirely within India, reducing dependence on imports.
- Promotes local manufacturing: Strengthens India’s defence industrial base, creating job opportunities and technology spin-offs.
- Strategic autonomy: Empowers India to equip its forces with homegrown solutions tailored to specific operational requirements.
Future Prospects: CQB Carbine Exports and Upgrades
The success of the CQB Carbine within India could open doors for export to friendly nations looking for affordable, reliable, and modern small arms. Additionally, Bharat Forge and DRDO are exploring future variants featuring:
- Integrated optics: Factory-fitted red dot and holographic sights.
- Smart rail systems: Enhanced integration with next-generation soldier systems.
- Improved barrel designs: For reduced muzzle flash and better accuracy.
FAQs
- What is the effective range of the CQB Carbine?
The effective range is approximately 200 metres, making it ideal for close-quarter battle scenarios. - Who manufactures India’s CQB Carbine?
The carbine is developed by DRDO’s ARDE and manufactured by Bharat Forge’s Kalyani Strategic Systems. - How does the CQB Carbine compare with older Indian Army small arms?
It is lighter, more compact, and offers superior firepower and modularity compared to the Sterling SMG and INSAS carbine.
Conclusion
The CQB Carbine is a reflection of India’s growing defence capabilities and its determination to equip soldiers with advanced, homegrown weapons. With its blend of compact design, modern materials, and indigenous innovation, it stands ready to strengthen India’s security forces.
This carbine is not just a tool of warfare but a representation of India’s technological progress and strategic independence. The future of small arms in India is indeed promising, with the CQB Carbine leading the way.