India at 78: Can It Become the Global Defence Arsenal of the Global South?
Independence Day 2025 marks a powerful moment of reflection for India—not just as a political or cultural entity, but as an emerging force in the global defence economy. From a country that once imported nearly 90% of its defence equipment, India is now exporting missiles, drones, radars, and even fighter jets. But the key question remains: can India become the primary defence supplier to the Global South?
India’s Defence Export Growth: From $200 Million to $2.6 Billion
India's defence exports have grown over 10X in the last decade. According to the Ministry of Defence, India exported ₹21,083 crore (~$2.6 billion) worth of defence products in 2023-24—its highest ever. The growth is driven by a mix of government push, private players, and global demand for affordable and reliable military hardware.
- 2013-14: ₹1,941 crore
- 2018-19: ₹10,745 crore
- 2023-24: ₹21,083 crore
Source: Ministry of Defence Annual Export Reports
What Is India Exporting Now?
India is no longer just exporting spare parts or low-value items. The product mix includes:
- BrahMos Supersonic Missile: Exported to the Philippines
- Pinaka Rocket Systems: Offers to Armenia, friendly nations in Africa
- Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet: Shortlisted by Argentina and Egypt
- Drones & UAVs: ideaForge & Paras Aerospace exports tactical drones
- Radar Systems: BEL’s Akash-NG radar and electronic warfare systems
Target Markets: The Global South Turns to India
As Western equipment becomes expensive and often tied to political conditions, many nations in Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East are turning to India for defence cooperation.
- Philippines: First major buyer of BrahMos
- Vietnam: Negotiating naval equipment
- Argentina, Egypt: Evaluating Tejas
- Armenia: Purchased artillery systems
This shift positions India as a trusted, affordable and non-aligned supplier—ideal for nations in the Global South looking for alternatives to US, Russia, or China.
How India Is Winning the Export Race
India's recent success isn’t accidental. It comes from policy reforms, tech maturity, and strong diplomatic efforts:
- Make in India–Defence: Over 500 industrial licenses issued since 2014
- Defence Attaches Empowered: Posted abroad to promote Indian equipment
- DRDO Export Policy: Certain technologies cleared for global sale
- Private Sector Push: Companies like Solar Industries, Kalyani Group, Tonbo Imaging, ideaForge now export-ready
What’s Holding India Back?
Despite rapid progress, India faces challenges that must be addressed to reach true "global arsenal" status:
- Jet Engine Technology: Still reliant on US (GE-F414) or foreign partners
- Delayed Approvals: Bureaucracy slows down export permissions
- After-Sales Infrastructure: Countries need Indian-trained support crews, MRO hubs
- Brand Trust: India’s defence brand is still emerging
Can India Lead the Global South in Defence?
The short answer is: yes, if the current trajectory continues. India is uniquely placed—it is not part of NATO or China’s military bloc. It offers cost-effective solutions, growing tech depth, and democratic credibility.
By 2030, India could realistically become a top-5 defence exporter globally if it continues investing in domestic production, export promotion, and trusted alliances.
Final Word: Independence Means Self-Reliance and Support to Others
As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, it must see defence exports not just as a business, but as a pillar of foreign policy and global influence. The dream isn’t just to build in India—but to equip the world with Indian strength.
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