India’s defence sector has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past eleven years, with exports reaching a record high of ₹23,622 crore in 2024–25. This marks a 34-fold increase from ₹686 crore in 2013–14, underlining the Modi government’s commitment to making India self-reliant and globally competitive in defence manufacturing.
The growth in defence exports has been the result of focused policy reforms, a clear strategic vision, and consistent efforts to strengthen domestic capabilities. Over the years, the government has taken several initiatives to ease export procedures, encourage private sector participation, and expand the range of products available for the international market.
In the financial year 2024–25 alone, India granted 1,762 export authorisations, reflecting a 16.92 percent rise from the previous year. The number of defence exporters also saw an increase of 17.4 percent, pointing to the growing participation of Indian firms in the global defence supply chain.
Defence exports from the private sector stood at ₹15,233 crore, while Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) contributed ₹8,389 crore. In comparison, the previous year had seen exports worth ₹15,209 crore from private players and ₹5,874 crore from DPSUs. The 42.85 percent increase in DPSU exports is seen as a strong indication of growing international trust in Indian defence products and the deepening integration of Indian manufacturing into global supply chains.
India’s export portfolio has diversified significantly over the last decade. Today, the country supplies bulletproof jackets, Dornier (Do-228) aircraft, Chetak helicopters, fast interceptor boats, radars, and lightweight torpedoes to over 100 countries. The United States, France, and Armenia have emerged as key buyers, reflecting India’s growing reputation as a reliable defence partner.
A landmark development came in January 2022, when BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited signed a $375 million deal with the Philippines for the supply of a Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile System. The contract was a major step forward in India’s efforts to promote responsible defence exports and showcased the technological maturity of Indian systems.
As the Modi government marks 11 years in office, the defence sector stands out as a clear success story. With a target of ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, India is steadily moving towards becoming a global hub for defence production.