Over the past 11 years, India has transformed its defence sector through a powerful blend of innovation, indigenous manufacturing, and strategic vision. Marking a new era of self-reliance, India has not only scaled up defence production and exports but also emerged as a dependable global player in maritime security and humanitarian operations.
In FY 2023-24, India achieved its highest-ever defence production, valued at ₹1,27,434 crore, a 174% jump from 2014-15. Backed by flagship platforms like the LCA Tejas, Arjun tank, Akash missile, and ALH Dhruv helicopter, this milestone reflects India’s commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Defence exports also saw a dramatic rise, reaching ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024-25, compared to just ₹686 crore in 2013-14. The private sector led the surge, contributing ₹15,233 crore, while DPSUs accounted for ₹8,389 crore. India now exports everything from torpedoes and patrol boats to helicopters and bulletproof jackets, with the US, France, and Armenia being top buyers.
With a goal of achieving ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029, India has implemented five Positive Indigenisation Lists, covering over 5,500 defence items, of which 3,000 have already been indigenised. These range from basic components to advanced systems like radars, rockets, and light helicopters—ensuring domestic capability in critical sectors.
The government has created two Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, which have attracted ₹8,658 crore in investments and signed 253 MoUs worth a potential ₹53,439 crore. Additionally, the Ministry of Defence signed 193 contracts worth ₹2,09,050 crore in FY 2024-25, with over 85% awarded to Indian firms—the highest ever in a single year.
Launched in 2018, the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative has become a key driver of indigenous R&D. So far, 619 startups and MSMEs have worked on 549 problem statements, resulting in 430 contracts. The Armed Forces have already procured 43 products worth ₹2,400 crore from these innovators. The government has allocated ₹449.62 crore for iDEX and ADITI in FY 2025-26 to scale this innovation ecosystem further.
India’s maritime strategy is anchored in vigilance, rapid response, and regional cooperation. In response to rising threats in the Western Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy deployed 35+ ships, conducted 1,000+ boarding operations, and saved 520+ lives, ensuring safe transit for 312 merchant vessels worth $5.3 billion.
Under the MAHASAGAR vision, India continues to be a first responder in the Indian Ocean Region. In 2024, it launched Operation Sadbhav to assist Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar post-Typhoon Yagi. In 2025, India hosted the AIKEYME maritime exercise with 10 African nations, promoting shared security in the Indo-Pacific.
India’s defence evolution—from production and exports to strategic maritime engagement—signals a confident stride toward global leadership. Rooted in self-reliance, innovation, and diplomacy, India is not only securing its own future but also contributing to a more balanced and secure global order.
