India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high of ₹38,424 crore in the Financial Year 2025–26, registering a remarkable growth of 62.66% over the previous fiscal’s ₹23,622 crore. This significant increase of ₹14,802 crore underscores India’s rapid emergence as a global defence manufacturing powerhouse.
The milestone aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to position India among the world’s leading defence exporters.
DPSUs Lead Growth with 151% Surge
Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) recorded an extraordinary 151% jump in exports, contributing ₹21,071 crore to the total. Meanwhile, the private sector maintained steady growth with a 14% increase, contributing ₹17,353 crore.
In comparison, the previous financial year saw DPSUs exporting ₹8,389 crore and private companies ₹15,233 crore worth of defence equipment.
The contribution share for FY 2025–26 stands at:
- DPSUs: 54.84%
- Private Sector: 45.16%
India Expanding Global Defence Footprint
India is now exporting defence equipment to over 80 countries, reflecting growing global trust in indigenous capabilities. The number of defence exporters has also increased from 128 to 145, marking a 13.3% rise.
This growth indicates stronger integration of Indian defence manufacturers into global supply chains, not only as suppliers of systems and sub-systems but also as exporters of complete defence platforms.
Raksha Mantri Applauds Sector’s Performance
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the achievement, crediting the Department of Defence Production, DPSUs, private industry, and all stakeholders.
He stated that India is steadily advancing towards becoming a global hub for defence manufacturing and highlighted that the country is scripting an “impressive defence exports success story” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Policy Push Driving Export Boom
The government’s continuous reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business have played a crucial role in this growth trajectory. Key initiatives include:
- Streamlined export authorisation processes
- Revamped online export portal
- Simplified Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
These measures have created a more efficient, transparent, and industry-friendly ecosystem, enabling Indian defence companies to compete globally.
Five-Year Growth Story
India’s defence exports have nearly tripled over the last five years, reflecting sustained policy focus, increasing private sector participation, and improved manufacturing capabilities.
The latest figures reinforce India’s ambition to become a major global defence exporter while strengthening self-reliance under the broader ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
