India Becomes Global Arms Powerhouse: $2.8 Billion Defense Exports, 34x Growth in a Decade

• India's defense exports reached $2.8 billion in FY2024-25, a 12% increase from last year and 34 times more than a decade ago.
• India now sells weapons, software, and equipment to over 100 countries, with the US, France, and Armenia as top buyers.
• Domestic defense manufacturing hit a record $18 billion, nearly doubling in five years, producing missiles, cannons, and naval ships.
• India is emerging as an "Affordable Arms Supplier," offering products like 155mm artillery shells and howitzer cannons at significantly lower prices than European counterparts.
• The performance of Akash Teer AI-based systems and BrahMos missiles during a recent clash with Pakistan has boosted India's marketing strength, attracting interest from 14-15 countries for BrahMos.

Why It Matters: India has transformed from a major arms importer to a significant global exporter, driven by affordable, advanced defense manufacturing.