New Delhi: India defence exports growth is expected to reach ₹50,000 crore by 2030, and the government believes this target can be achieved comfortably. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said strong global demand for Indian-made defence equipment and the country’s growing manufacturing strength are driving this growth. The government is also expanding defence exports through public and private companies.
Details of Indian Defence Export Growth
Speaking in an interview with Moneycontrol, Rajesh Kumar Singh said India recorded nearly ₹39,000 crore in defence exports in the last financial year. He said the current international environment has created strong demand for Indian defence products, making the ₹50,000 crore target by 2030 achievable.
Read also: India’s Defence Exports Soar to Record ₹39,000 Crore, Rajnath Singh Highlights Major Milestone
According to the Defence Secretary, around 145 Indian companies are exporting defence products. These companies manufacture everything from bulletproof jackets and ballistic helmets to advanced systems such as the BrahMos cruise missile and Akash surface-to-air missile.
Exports Reach More Than 100 Countries
Singh said that during FY 2025-26, India issued around 1,800 export authorisations covering more than 100 countries. This shows that Indian defence products are finding buyers across the world. He added that defence exports have reached a stage where they are becoming an important part of India’s overall defence industry. Public sector companies are also receiving large export orders, especially for artillery shells and ammunition.
BrahMos And Akash Missiles Lead Indian Defence Export Growth
The Defence Secretary said there is strong international interest in advanced Indian defence platforms. He revealed that three BrahMos missile export deals are at different stages. The Philippines has already moved ahead with the first order, while Indonesia and Vietnam are close to signing final agreements.
He also highlighted the success of Akash missile systems and artillery equipment, pointing to Armenia as one of the countries that has already placed orders for Indian defence products.
Make In India Driving Defence Exports
Government data shows India’s defence exports increased from ₹686 crore in FY 2013-14 to ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, representing growth of more than 5,500% in just 12 years. Officials credit this rise to the Make in India initiative, policy reforms, and greater focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The government also said that nearly 65% of India’s defence equipment is now produced within the country, compared with an earlier import dependence of around 65–70%.
What is the Importance of Indian Defence Export Growth for India
Higher defence exports will help India strengthen its manufacturing sector, create skilled jobs, increase foreign exchange earnings, and improve its position as a global defence supplier. If the current growth continues, India is well positioned to achieve its long-term export target while expanding its defence partnerships with countries around the world.
