The matter is pending with Defence Ministry even after completion of cost negotiations

The fast-track procurement of 93,895 Close Quarter Carbine (CQB) rifles for the Army has been delayed even after the completion of cost negotiations as the case is pending with the Defence Ministry, according to defence sources.

“Cost negotiations have been completed, and the file has gone to a three-member oversight committee where it has been held up without a decision,” a defence source said.

The status of the case was on the agenda of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting held last week.

In January 2018, the DAC approved the purchase of 72,400 assault rifles and 93,895 carbines for ₹3,547 crore through the fast-track procurement (FTP) mode. After evaluation, Sig Sauer of the U.S. emerged as the lowest bidder for the assault rifles and the United Arab Emirates-based Caracal for the carbines.

Last month, the Defence Ministry signed an agreement with Sig Sauer for SIG 716 assault rifles meant for front-line infantry soldiers deployed in operational areas.

The oversight committee consists of members of the Army, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Defence Ministry. It had received questions on the company’s capability to deliver the entire volume in time. “The case has been held up by objections from the DRDO official on the committee,” said a second official with knowledge of the matter.

The committee was supposed to give its comments in three days, but it had taken longer, and had not given any reason for the delay, another defence source said.

The carbine should have an effective range of 200 m and weigh less than 2 kg. Under the FTP process, there is no elaborate general staff evaluation, and the exercise is expected to be completed in a year. The evaluation is based on the operational requirements, and deliveries should be completed in a year of the contract having been signed. The deal is estimated to cost ₹1,800 crore.