India’s Record Defence Leap: From Importer to Exporter of Arms
By Sanjeev Oak
India’s journey in the defence sector has reached a historic milestone. In the financial year 2024–25, the country registered a record defence production worth ₹1.27 lakh crore, alongside exports touching ₹21,083 crore. From being a net importer of arms to emerging as a significant exporter, India’s trajectory is nothing short of remarkable.
“This is not just about numbers—it is about national security, industrial self-reliance and global strategic credibility.”
A Decade of Transformation
In 2014, India’s defence production hovered around ₹45,000 crore. In just a decade, that figure has nearly tripled, driven by structural reforms and strategic policies such as Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Defence Industrial Corridors, DRDO’s private partnerships, and the modernisation of defence PSUs.
Today, both state-owned giants like HAL and private players such as L&T, Tata, Bharat Forge, and Mahindra Defence have built advanced capabilities in tanks, missiles, naval patrol vessels, electronic warfare systems, border-monitoring drones, radars, and cyber defence technologies.
Exports That Speak of Trust
India’s defence exports stood at just ₹1,940 crore in 2014. A decade later, they have grown tenfold to ₹21,083 crore.
“From BrahMos missiles to patrol vessels and night-vision systems, India’s exports signal a global vote of confidence in its defence industry.”
Key milestones include supplying BrahMos missile systems to the Philippines, patrol vessels to Mauritius, Seychelles, and Vietnam, military vehicles to African nations, and training simulators to other countries. Interest in India’s indigenous Tejas fighter jet has also come from Argentina, Nigeria, and Malaysia—an indication that India is no longer merely a developing country but a strategic supplier on the global stage.
A Firm Stand Against Pressure
New Delhi’s defence policies in recent years have emphasised import substitution. Over 450 defence items are now on a ‘negative import list’, ensuring they are produced domestically. Drones, helicopters, rifles, warships, and software are all part of this self-reliance push, opening up opportunities for MSMEs and startups to enter the sector.
India has also shown it will not bow to external pressure. Despite US objections and threats of sanctions, India went ahead with the purchase of Russia’s S-400 missile defence system. Its effectiveness was proven during Operation Sindoor, where Indian-made weapons and systems outperformed Chinese drones and missiles in real-world combat conditions.
“Foreign pressure will not dictate India’s defence policy. The success of indigenous systems in live operations is a game-changer.”
Geopolitical Impact
The strategic consequences of India’s defence exports are equally significant. By supplying weapons, India deepens security ties that extend beyond the battlefield—into training, technology, and diplomacy. The BrahMos deal with the Philippines, for instance, strengthens India’s role in the South China Sea. In Africa, defence cooperation complements India’s growing soft power.
This transformation signals a decisive shift: India is no longer a mere buyer at the global defence marketplace but a trusted supplier and partner.
“The world now sees India not as a customer, but as a supplier. This is a turning point in 75 years of independent India’s journey.”
Beyond Economics
India’s record defence production is not only about economic growth. It is about national security, global credibility, and strategic autonomy. By reducing dependence on imports and building self-reliance, India has gained the freedom to make independent choices in international affairs.
From ₹1.27 lakh crore in production to ₹21,083 crore in exports, this leap embodies the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. For India, defence is not just a shield—it has become a source of prosperity, influence, and pride.