India’s Defence Exports Hit Record ₹38,424 Crore in FY26, Driven by Missiles, Artillery and Global Demand
Summary
India’s defence exports rose to a record ₹38,424 crore in FY2025–26, a 62.66% increase from ₹23,622 crore the previous year. Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) accounted for ₹21,071 crore of exports (a 151% year‑on‑year rise), while the private sector contributed ₹17,353 crore — about 45% of the total and up 14% year‑on‑year. The export mix has moved into higher‑value platforms: missiles (BrahMos, Akash), artillery and rocket systems (Pinaka, ATAGS), radars (Swathi), electronic warfare systems, aviation and naval platforms, lightweight torpedoes, drones, small arms, munitions and personal protection gear. Indian defence products reached over 80 countries and the number of registered defence exporters rose 13.3% to 145. Over five years exports have nearly tripled, signalling deeper integration into global defence supply chains.
Key Points
- Record exports of ₹38,424 crore in FY26 — up 62.66% from FY25.
- DPSUs led growth with ₹21,071 crore in exports, a 151% YoY jump.
- Private sector supplied higher‑value items (armoured vehicles, UAVs, small arms, protection gear) contributing ₹17,353 crore (~45% of total).
- Major exported systems include BrahMos and Akash missiles, Pinaka rockets, ATAGS howitzers, Swathi radar and electronic warfare technologies.
- Broader basket: Dornier 228 aircraft, naval vessels, lightweight torpedoes, munitions, drones, ammunition and body armour.
- Exports reached more than 80 countries; registered exporters climbed to 145 (up 13.3%).
- Key markets: United States (notably sub‑systems/components), France, Armenia, Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Israel, Germany, Belgium and several African nations.
- Five‑year trend: exports have nearly tripled, reflecting rising global demand and confidence in Make‑in‑India defence products.
Context and relevance
This milestone is important for defence manufacturers, logistics operators and policy makers. The shift towards higher‑value platforms increases complexity in export logistics, compliance, after‑sales support and supply‑chain resilience. Geopolitical demand for missiles, artillery and drones is a key driver — and India is becoming a more prominent supplier in global defence markets.
Why should I read this?
Short and blunt: India’s defence industry just levelled up. If you’re into defence manufacturing, exports, logistics or tracking geopolitical arms flows — this tells you who’s selling what, where it’s going and why it matters. Quick save: we read it so you don’t have to.
Author
Punchy take: big numbers, rapid momentum — India’s defence manufacturing is converting domestic capability into export wins. If trade, supply chains or regional security matter to you, dig into the details.