In a significant move to bolster its armed forces, the Indian government has finalised a major defence acquisition contract valued at nearly Rs 5,000 crore. The deal, signed on 30 December 2025, is aimed at procuring state-of-the-art heavyweight torpedoes for the Navy's Scorpene-class submarines and modern close-quarter battle carbines for the Army.
Enhancing Naval Firepower
The centrepiece of this acquisition is the procurement of advanced torpedoes for the Indian Navy's fleet of six Kalvari (Scorpene) class submarines. These underwater vessels, constructed by Mazagaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) with technology from France, are among the most potent platforms in India's naval arsenal. The new torpedoes, described as having significant operational capabilities and advanced technological features, will substantially upgrade the submarines' ability to engage enemy warships and submarines. This directly translates to a formidable enhancement in the Navy's subsurface combat strength and maritime deterrence.
Modernising the Soldier's Arsenal
Parallel to the naval upgrade, a portion of the Rs 5,000 crore defence deal is allocated for acquiring new-generation carbines for the Indian Army. These compact and lightweight weapons are crucial for infantry troops, especially in close-quarter battle scenarios encountered in counter-insurgency and conventional operations. The induction of these technologically advanced carbines will replace older systems, providing soldiers with greater firepower, reliability, and ergonomic design, thereby improving individual combat effectiveness on the ground.
Strategic Implications and Self-Reliance
This dual-pronged acquisition underscores India's ongoing commitment to modernising its military hardware across domains. By equipping the Scorpene submarines with cutting-edge torpedoes, the Navy fills a critical capability gap, ensuring these stealthy predators can deliver a lethal punch. The deal also highlights the strategic importance of the Kalvari-class submarines, built indigenously at MDL, as a cornerstone of India's naval defence. The simultaneous focus on the soldier's personal weapon reflects a holistic approach to defence preparedness, from the depths of the ocean to the frontline soldier.
The timing of the contract, as reported on 30 December 2025, points towards a continued push under the government's broader policies of defence modernisation and achieving greater self-reliance in the long term. This substantial investment is expected to significantly enhance the integrated combat capability of the Indian armed forces.
