A top Israeli defence company, Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), announced it will start supplying 40,000 Light Machine Guns (LMGs) to India early next year. Shuki Schwartz, IWI's CEO, said all tests and government approvals are done and production licenses are ready. "We intend to supply the first batch at the beginning of the year," he told PTI. The LMG supply contract will last five years. IWI is also finalising a deal to supply 1,70,000 Close Quarters Battle (CQB) carbines for India. Bharat Forge won the contract's 60% share, while the remaining 40% will be delivered by PLR Systems, part of the Adani Group. Schwartz expects the contract signing by year-end or early next year. IWI is discussing with Indian agencies the integration of Arbel, a smart weapon system that uses algorithms to improve accuracy. "We are in the initial stages of discussions," Schwartz said. PLR Systems will co-produce Arbel technology in India. The company supports India's 'Make in India' initiative and collaborates with the Ministry of Home Affairs to supply weapons like pistols, rifles, and machine guns. Schwartz mentioned annual supplies could be in the tens of thousands of weapons. Highlighting strong ties with PLR Systems and emphasizing supply chain independence, he said, "Israel needs to enhance its self-reliance for this reason, and we have our supply chain to support defence forces globally." The partnership aims to boost local manufacturing and fast-track deliveries under the current security demands.