Overview A leading Israeli defence firm, Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) , has announced its intention to supply the first batch of 40,000 Light Machine Guns (LMGs) to India starting early next year. Simultaneously, the company is in the final stages of securing a contract to provide nearly 170,000 new-age carbines . This development underscores the ongoing efforts to modernize India's defence capabilities and promote indigenous manufacturing through the 'Make in India' initiative. Key Developments LMG Supply Quantity: 40,000 LMGs Supplier: Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Timeline: First batch to be supplied at the beginning of next year (2026) Contract Duration: Five years CQB Carbine Contract Quantity: Nearly 170,000 carbines Suppliers: Bharat Forge (60%) and PLR Systems (40%) , a subsidiary of the Adani Group Status: Pre-signing stage, expected to be finalized by the end of this year or the beginning of next year. Arbel Technology Integration Technology: Arbel , a computerized weapon system for precision targeting. Status: Initial stages of discussions with Indian agencies. Co-production: Planned through collaboration between Israel and PLR Systems in India. 'Make in India' Initiative IWI's Role: Among the first companies to support the initiative. Partnership: Strong collaboration with the Adani Group through PLR Systems . Focus: Light weapons manufacturing and integration of Arbel systems locally. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Examination , particularly under GS Paper 3 (Economy, Science and Technology, and Internal Security) and GS Paper 2 (Government Policies and Interventions) . It highlights India's defence procurement strategies, the role of foreign companies in India's defence sector, and the promotion of indigenous manufacturing through the 'Make in India' initiative. The integration of advanced technologies like the Arbel system is also significant from a science and technology perspective. Key Points for UPSC Defence Procurement: Understanding the process of defence procurement and the involvement of foreign and domestic players. 'Make in India' in Defence: Analyzing the impact of the 'Make in India' initiative on the defence sector and its contribution to self-reliance. Technology Transfer: Evaluating the significance of technology transfer and co-production agreements in enhancing India's defence capabilities. Public-Private Partnerships: Assessing the role of public-private partnerships in defence manufacturing and modernization. Important Facts IWI is set to supply 40,000 LMGs to India. A contract for nearly 170,000 new-age carbines is in the final stages. Bharat Forge will supply 60% of the CQB carbines . PLR Systems , a subsidiary of the Adani Group , will deliver 40% of the CQB carbines . Arbel technology is a computerized weapon system for precision targeting. IWI is collaborating with the MHA to market their products.