India's defence exports surge

New Delhi: India's defence export sky-rocketed in 2022-23 to Rs 16,000 crore from a mere Rs 686 crore in 2013-14.

 It is an increase of 23 times. India has been keenly focusing on its defense front and it is a direct result of that. Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology recently said, “Our national security will be further strengthened with two landmark agreements signed during the historic visit of PM Modi to the US. One is the deal for manufacturing jet engines for the LCA Tejas fighter jets, and the other is that US warships will now be berthing at our Naval Shipyards for extensive repairs. This demonstrates the trust reposed in our capabilities by the US.”

During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to France in July the two nations are expected to seal a defence deal as well. India is now exporting to over 85 countries. Indian industry has shown its capability of design and development to the world, with 100 firms exporting defense products at present.

The rising defence exports and participation of 104 countries in Aero India 2023 are proof of India's growing defense manufacturing capabilities. In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had described the achievement as a clear manifestation of India's talent and the enthusiasm towards 'Make in India'.

 “It also shows the reforms in this sector over the past few years that have delivered good results. Our government will keep supporting efforts to make India a defense production hub,” he said. India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh termed record defense exports as a remarkable achievement of the country.

“Under the inspiring leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the defense exports will continue to grow exponentially,” he had tweeted.

Today, India, which was known as an importer about eight years back, exports major platforms like Dornier-228, 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Guns (ATAGs), Brahmos Missiles, Akash Missile System, Radars, Simulators, Mine Protected Vehicles, Armoured Vehicles, PINAKA Rockets & Launchers, Ammunitions, Thermal Imagers, Body Armours, besides Systems, Line Replaceable Units and Parts & components of Avionics and Small Arms. There is growing global demand of LCA-Tejas, Light Combat Helicopters, Aircraft Carrier and MRO activities.