India’s Defense Exports Skyrocket: 34-Fold Increase Since 2013
India’s Defense Exports Reach Record High
India’s defense sector is booming, with exports reaching a staggering Rs 23,622 crore in the last financial year (2024-25). This marks a remarkable 34-fold increase from just Rs 686 crore in 2013-14, according to a statement from Defense Minister Rajnath Singh’s office.
Singh’s office proudly declared that this growth is fueled by the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which aims to make India self-reliant in defense manufacturing.
A Major Boost for India’s Defense Industry
Amidst heightened tensions with Pakistan, India’s defense exports are gaining international attention. This surge in exports comes as Rajnath Singh recently inaugurated a new BrahMos missile production unit in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. This facility has the capacity to manufacture around 150 missiles annually, significantly bolstering India’s defense capabilities.
The BrahMos missile, a supersonic weapon, has proven its effectiveness in past conflicts, including its use during Operation Sindoor, where it targeted key Pakistani airbases. The new production unit, part of India’s defense corridor program, will further strengthen the country’s defense capabilities.
Private Sector Leads the Way
The Ministry of Defense highlighted that private sector exports played a crucial role in this success, reaching Rs 15,233 crore in 2024-25. Defense Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) also contributed significantly, with exports reaching Rs 8,389 crore, showcasing a 42.85% growth.
According to the MoD, export authorizations increased by 16.92%, while the number of exporters grew by 17.4%. India currently exports to approximately 80 countries and aims to reach a target of Rs 50,000 crore in exports by 2029, solidifying its position as a major player in the global defense manufacturing landscape.
