In a crucial move for India’s defense capabilities, Caracal, an entity of the UAE-based EDGE group, has partnered with Icomm Tele, a firm under the Indian Megha Engineering & Infrastructures (MEIL) group. Together, they have successfully secured a contract to supply 200 advanced CSR 338 sniper rifles to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
These high-precision rifles will be proudly manufactured and delivered from the newly established Icomm–Caracal Small Arms Complex located in Hyderabad. This facility, which officially opened its doors in April, is a strategic local manufacturing hub. Its primary aim is to produce a wide range of sophisticated weapons, fulfilling the vital requirements of the Indian Armed Forces, the Central Armed Police Forces, and also addressing Caracal’s international export demands.
The eagerly anticipated delivery of Caracal’s first India-produced CSR 338 sniper rifles is slated for the fourth quarter of 2025. The CSR 338 is celebrated as a high-performance, bolt-action sniper rifle. It is chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum and boasts an impressive 27-inch barrel, a 10-round magazine, and user-friendly ambidextrous magazine release and safety mechanisms. Additionally, it features a two-stage adjustable precision trigger and a versatile four-position, telescopic, and foldable stock, ensuring superior operational flexibility.
Hamad Alameri, CEO of Caracal, emphasized the significance of this collaboration following the launch of their small arms complex. “We are not just advancing our partnership with Icomm, but also reinforcing our strong commitment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Make in India initiative. This historic transfer of small arms technology marks a monumental step in the UAE-India defense partnership,” he stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Sumanth Paturu, Director of Icomm Tele, added, “Alongside Caracal and EDGE, we are doing more than just providing the CRPF with the cutting-edge CSR-338 sniper system. We are facilitating the transfer of world-class technology, generating high-quality manufacturing jobs right here in Hyderabad, and robustly strengthening India’s defense industrial ecosystem.”