Dr. Jitendra Kumar Verma* and Dr. Subodh Mani Tripathi*
*Assistant Professor, Department of Defence and Strategic Studies, S. M. M. Town P. G. College, Ballia, U. P.
E-mail: jituverma89@gmail.com
Issue: Volume 2 No. 1 (March 2026) Anubodhan
Received: 3 March 2026 / Accepted: 10 March 2026 / Published: 31 March 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65885/anubodhan.v2n1.2026.006
Abstract
India has made significant strides in the global defence industry, transitioning from being one of the largest arms importers to an emerging exporter. Between 2016 and 2023 India’s defence exports increased by over 334%, reaching an all-time high of ₹15,920 crore ($2 billion) in 2022-23. This growth has been driven by initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, along with strategic policies such as the Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) 2020, which targets $5 billion in exports by 2025.
India now exports defence equipment to over 75 countries including major markets in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Key export products include helicopters, missile systems, patrol vessels, and artillery systems. Despite this progress India faces challenges such as limited technological capabilities and lower brand recognition compared to major arms exporters. This paper also examines India’s future prospects, outlining potential growth areas and strategies for overcoming these challenges to become a significant player in the global defence market.
Keywords: Defence exports, Military equipment, Global arms market, Make in India.
How to cite: Verma, J. K, Tripathi, S. M. (2026). The Journey of 75th Independence: India’s Emergence as a Global Defence Exporter. Anubodhan, 2(1), 47–61. https://doi.org/10.65885/anubodhan.v2n1.2026.006