Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday praised the efforts of the Department of Defence Production, Indian exporters, and industry stakeholders, stating that India is rapidly moving toward becoming a global manufacturing hub for defence equipment.
Record-Breaking Defence Exports
According to the Ministry of Defence, India’s defence exports reached an all-time high of ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025–26.
- Previous year (FY 2024–25): ₹23,622 crore
- Growth: ₹14,802 crore increase (62.66%)
This marks a nearly threefold rise in defence exports over the past five years, reflecting strong momentum in the sector.
Contribution from Public and Private Sectors
The growth has been driven by both public and private players:
- Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs): 54.84%
- Private sector: 45.16%
This balanced contribution highlights the expanding role of private companies in India’s defence ecosystem.
Vision of Global Defence Export Leader
Rajnath Singh credited the achievement to the leadership of Narendra Modi, stating that India is writing an “impressive success story in defence exports.”
The milestone aligns with the government’s vision to position India among the top global defence exporters.
Policy Reforms Boosting Growth
The government’s continuous efforts to improve ease of doing business in defence manufacturing have played a key role in this growth. Key initiatives include:
- Launch of a new online portal for exporters
- Simplified Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Streamlined regulatory processes
These reforms have helped create a performance-driven and globally competitive defence industry.
Strengthening India’s Strategic Capabilities
The surge in exports not only boosts the economy but also enhances India’s position as a reliable defence partner globally, supporting long-term strategic and industrial growth.
