India's Defence Production and Export Milestones
India's defence production reached ₹1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, a 174% rise since 2014-15, driven by the Make in India initiative. Defence exports hit a record ₹21,083 crore, expanding 30 times in a decade, with exports to over 100 countries.
Source:PIB
| Metric | FY 2013-14 | FY 2023-24 | Growth Rate |
| Defence Production | ₹46,429 crore | ₹1,27,434 crore | 174% increase |
| Defence Exports | ₹686 crore | ₹21,083 crore | 30-fold increase |
As per PIB report, the "Make in India" initiative has transformed India into a global defence manufacturing hub, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening national security. Military strategy has precipitated the advancement of state-of-the-art weapon systems, stimulated technological innovation, and facilitated the engagement of private sector enterprises.
What are the commitments of self-reliance and modernisation toward defence production in India?
The commitment to self-reliance and modernisation is evident in the recent approval by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the acquisition of defence equipment, including ATAGS, as well as various indigenisation initiatives and future projects. The details are provided below:
- Defence Budget Surge: Increased from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to ₹6.81 lakh crore in 2025-26.
- ATAGS Artillery Procurement: 307 units of 155mm/52 calibre guns with 327 High Mobility 6x6 Gun Towing Vehicles at ₹7,000 crore.
- Indigenisation Drive: 14,000+ items developed under SRIJAN and 3,000+ items under Positive Indigenisation Lists.
- Future Target: India aims for ₹3 lakh crore in production and ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029.
Indigenous Defence Production Surge
India has recorded the highest-ever growth in indigenous defence production in FY 2023-24, supported by strategic policies and initiatives.
Different Defence Platforms Developed in India
- Land Systems:
- Dhanush Artillery Gun System, ATAGS, Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun
- Light Specialist Vehicles, High Mobility Vehicles
- Aerospace Systems:
- Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH), Light Utility Helicopters (LUH)
- Akash Missile System, Weapons Locating Radar, 3D Tactical Control Radar
- Naval Systems:
- Destroyers, Aircraft Carriers, Submarines, Frigates, Corvettes, Fast Patrol Vessels
Source:PIB
Figures
- 65% of defence equipment is now manufactured domestically, a reversal from 65-70% import dependency a decade ago.
- 16 DPSUs, 430+ licensed companies, and 16,000 MSMEs form India's defence industrial base.
- Private Sector Contribution: 21% of total defence production.
Defence Exports: A Global Footprint
India's commitment to self-reliance has significantly boosted defence exports, with a 30-fold increase over the last decade.
Source:PIB
Top Exported Defence Equipment
- Bulletproof jackets, Dornier (Do-228) aircraft, Chetak helicopters
- Fast interceptor boats, lightweight torpedoes
- 'Made in Bihar' boots used by the Russian Army
Major Defence Export Destinations
| Country | Key Imports |
| USA | Aircraft, Drones |
| France | Bulletproof Gear |
| Armenia | Artillery Systems |
India now exports to 100+ countries and aims to reach ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
Launched in April 2018, iDEX has created a thriving ecosystem for startups, MSMEs, and R&D institutions.
iDEX Key Highlights
- ₹1.5 crore grants for technology development.
- ₹449.62 crore allocated for iDEX and ADITI scheme (2025-26).
- 549 problem statements, 619 startups/MSMEs engaged.
- 430 contracts signed as of February 2025.
- ₹2,400 crore worth of defence items procured from iDEX startups.
ADITI Scheme (Advanced Defence Technologies Initiative)
- Focus Areas: AI, Cyber Technology, Quantum Tech, Nuclear Tech, Semiconductors, Underwater Surveillance.
- Funding: Up to ₹25 crore per project.
SAMARTHYA: Showcasing India's Defence Indigenisation
The SAMARTHYA event at Aero India 2025 highlighted India’s defence manufacturing progress with 33 major indigenised items.
Source:PIB
Indigenised Items Displayed
- Weapons & Missile Systems: RudraM II Missile, Naval Anti-Ship Missile (Short Range)
- Electronic Systems: VPX-135 Single Board Computer, C4ISR System, DIFM R118 Electronic Warfare Systems
- AI & Surveillance Tech: AI-driven analytical platforms, quantum-secure communication, counter-drone measures
This reflects India's commitment to self-reliance, bridging gaps between industry, startups, and defence needs.
Advancing Self-Reliance in Defence
India’s self-reliance drive has significantly reduced dependence on foreign suppliers, strengthening both national security and economic growth.
SRIJAN (Indigenisation Initiative)
- Launched: August 2020 under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Objective: Indigenisation of defence production by Defence PSUs and Armed Forces.
- Achievements:
- 14,000+ items indigenised under SRIJAN.
- 3,000+ items under Positive Indigenisation Lists.
Future Goals
| Target | Deadline |
| ₹3 lakh crore defence production | 2029 |
| ₹50,000 crore defence exports | 2029 |
Conclusion
India's defence industry is on a rapid growth trajectory, fuelled by strategic policies, technological advancements, and private sector participation. The Make in India initiative has propelled the country towards self-reliance, enhancing its global footprint in defence exports. With ambitious goals set for 2029, India is poised to become a leading defence manufacturing hub, strengthening both national security and economic prosperity.
By fostering innovation, indigenisation, and exports, India's defence sector is not just self-sufficient but also contributing to the global defence landscape, reinforcing the vision of a strong and independent India.
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