India Emerges as a Global Leader in Defence Exports Over 11 Years
In the past 11 years, India has firmly established itself as a major global player in defence exports, recording a nearly threefold increase in export value. According to official figures, India achieved defence exports worth ₹23,622 crore in 2024–25, compared to ₹686 crore in 2013–14.
Over this period, cumulative defence exports totaled ₹1,27,434 crore, with a significant surge noted since 2014–15, when annual exports were just ₹464 crore.
According to government statements, India’s defence industry has expanded its product range to include light combat helicopters, personal protective systems, surveillance equipment, radars, electronic warfare systems, and various indigenous weapons.
Key Highlights:
- In 2024–25 alone, India exported defence equipment worth ₹23,622 crore.
- From 2013–14, exports have grown nearly 34 times.
- India has become a reliable partner to many nations seeking modern defence platforms.
Officials highlighted that Indian companies are supplying diverse products ranging from bulletproof jackets and torpedoes to naval vessels. In 2023–24, defence public sector undertakings accounted for ₹15,233 crore in exports, while private companies contributed ₹8,389 crore.
The Defence Ministry emphasized that India’s consistent performance as a leading defence manufacturing hub is aligned with the country’s self-reliance mission. As part of this effort, the government has implemented five positive indigenization lists, banning the import of many defence items to promote local production.
Focus on Self-Reliance and Export Expansion
By 2029, India aims to ramp up annual defence production to ₹50,000 crore. Defence corridors have been established in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to accelerate this goal, with facilities covering everything from large helicopters to sophisticated artillery systems.
India’s rise as an exporter reflects both the scaling up of domestic capabilities and growing international confidence in Indian defence products.
