India has reached a significant milestone in its pursuit of self-reliance in defense by establishing itself as a global exporter of military equipment, now supplying to as many as 90 countries. This announcement was made by Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth during a celebratory event at Radha Govind University in Ramgarh, marking the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar. In his address, Seth noted India’s remarkable shift from being primarily an arms importer to becoming a burgeoning defense exporter on the international stage.
Seth pointed out that India has transitioned from a heavy reliance on foreign nations for military necessities to being among the countries that provide sophisticated defense products worldwide. He particularly highlighted the Indian Navy’s achievement of 75% self-reliance, reflecting broader advancements in indigenous manufacturing within India’s defense sector.
In the past decade, India’s defense exports have surged dramatically. In the financial year 2024–25, defense exports reached a record ₹23,622 crore (approximately $2.76 billion), marking a 12% increase from the previous year and an astonishing 34-fold growth since 2013–14. This upward trajectory is attributed to a mix of comprehensive policy reforms, active participation from the private sector, and technological innovation facilitated by the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
India’s diverse export portfolio now includes a wide range of high-tech military systems, such as the BrahMos and Akash missile systems, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS), surveillance radars, electronic warfare platforms, and the Dornier-228 aircraft. The United States, France, and Armenia have emerged as significant importers of these Indian-made defense products.
Minister Seth credited this rapid escalation in defense exports to the strategic vision set forth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key reforms, including simplified export approvals, enhanced representation at international defense exhibitions, and robust support for the domestic private defense industry, have collectively strengthened India’s position in the global market. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh expressed optimism that India’s defense exports could reach ₹50,000 crore by 2030, a goal that appears increasingly feasible given the current momentum.
The country’s defense footprint now spans multiple continents, exporting everything from basic protective gear, like ballistic helmets and body armor, to advanced weaponry and surveillance systems. Nations such as Australia, Vietnam, Germany, Indonesia, Israel, and the United States are among those utilizing Indian defense equipment. A notable achievement came in 2022 when India secured a $375 million BrahMos missile deal with the Philippines, signaling its firm entry into the elite group of missile-exporting nations.
India’s expanding defense exports not only highlight its growing technological and manufacturing capabilities but also establish it as a trusted partner in the global security landscape, underscoring its commitment to becoming a formidable player in international defense collaborations.
