India Witnesses Surge In Defence Exports With Supply To Over 90 Countries: Report

India is now selling weapons made in the country to other nations, reaching record levels in defence exports. Over the last decade, India’s defence exports have increased more than 30 times. This growth is partly due to global conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict, which have led many countries to strengthen their military capabilities. Currently, India reportedly exports military hardware to more than 90 countries. The Indian government has simplified the licensing and approval process to promote these exports. The government is also more willing to supply lethal weapons than before. The United States has become the largest destination for Indian defence exports. India is also focusing on supplying defence goods to Africa and other countries, offering easy credit and diplomatic support.

Recent data from the defence ministry shows a significant rise in exports. In the first quarter of 2024-2025, defence exports increased by 78 percent. Exports in April-June 2024 reached Rs 6,915 crore, up from Rs 3,885 crore in the same period last year. In 2023-2024, defence exports reached a record Rs 21,083 crore (about $2.63 billion), an increase of 32.5 percent from Rs 15,920 crore in the previous year.

The Narendra Modi government set an ambitious target in 2020 to achieve Rs 35,000 crore ($5 billion) in defence exports within five years. This goal is part of a broader plan to reach a turnover of Rs 1.75 lakh crore ($25 billion) in defence manufacturing by 2025.

Although the government has not disclosed specific details about the types of exports or the countries involved, sources indicate that India’s defence exports include a wide range of products. These products range from ammunition, small arms like sniper rifles, and bulletproof jackets to more advanced items such as drones, light torpedoes, armoured vehicles, and fast attack ships.

While the US is the largest importer, Myanmar has been a major buyer of Indian defence exports, particularly fuses and ammunition. Israel and Armenia have also emerged as important buyers. Notably, India has signed significant contracts, such as the BrahMos missile deal with the Philippines and deals for artillery and air defence systems with Armenia. The US accounts for nearly 50 percent of India’s total defence exports, making it the biggest buyer.