India has emerged as the third-largest exporter of arms to Europe, driven by rising demand for defence equipment under the European Union’s ‘ReArm Europe’ initiative and the expansion of the country’s domestic manufacturing sector. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh made the remarks while talking to media persons yesterday. He said India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high of 38 thousand 424 crore rupees, equivalent to around 3.6 billion euros. He said the increase in exports to Europe was largely driven by the growing demand for standard ammunition, artillery shells and other large- and small-calibre ammunition.

 

Mr Singh said, country’s defence manufacturing ecosystem has witnessed significant growth over the past decade. He said the sector comprises 16 major public sector companies, around 840 large and medium-sized private enterprises, and nearly 17 thousand small enterprises, including start-ups. He added that India now exports defence equipment to more than 80 countries. The country’s defence exports range from artillery and ammunition to small arms, helmets, bulletproof jackets and other tactical equipment.

 

Mr Singh highlighted that the government aims to ensure that 75 per cent of annual defence capital expenditure, estimated at 20 to 25 billion dollars, is spent domestically, with priority given to Indian-designed, developed and manufactured products. 

 

The Defence Secretary also noted that Indian defence manufacturers are attracting interest from international buyers, particularly in Southeast Asia, for a wide range of defence equipment, including small arms, components and artillery gun systems.

 

The Defence Secretary said India plans to expand its participation in European defence procurement through joint ventures with European partners, while also encouraging European companies to manufacture in India under the Make in India initiative. He said greater integration of Indian and European defence supply chains will help meet international demand and strengthen cooperation.