Full formDefence & Police
OFBstands forOrdnance Factory Board
Full Form of OFB
What is OFB?
The Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) is an Indian state-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Defence, responsible for producing arms, ammunition, and military equipment for the Indian Armed Forces. Established in 1775 with the Gunpowder Factory at Ichapore, it has grown into a vast network of 41 factories across India, making it one of the largest defence manufacturing organisations in the world. OFB plays a critical role in achieving self-reliance in defence production, supporting both conventional and modern warfare needs. Its products include small arms, artillery, tanks (like the Arjun MBT), vehicles, explosives, and clothing. The board is headquartered in Kolkata and operates as a conglomerate of ordnance factories managed by a central board. OFB is frequently referenced in defence exams such as the UPSC Civil Services and CDS, and in discussions about 'Make in India' in defence. It is also known for its indigenous development efforts, like the INSAS rifle and the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher.
OFB का फुल फॉर्म
आयुध निर्माणी बोर्ड
Example
The Ordnance Factory Board recently delivered a batch of 155 mm artillery shells to the Indian Army for its operational requirements.
OFB — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of OFB?
The full form of OFB is Ordnance Factory Board, an organisation under the Ministry of Defence of India that manufactures defence equipment.
How many factories does OFB operate in India?
OFB operates 41 factories spread across different states in India, making it one of the largest defence production networks in the world.
Is OFB relevant for UPSC preparation?
Yes, OFB is relevant for UPSC as it is a key topic in defence and security sections, and questions about its role in indigenisation and 'Make in India' often appear.