India's defense sector leaps ahead, exports rise in 10 years; what will be the impact of the deal with the UAE?

News Topical, Digital Desk : India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have further strengthened their strategic partnership with the signing of a $3 billion LNG supply agreement between ADNOC Gas and HPCL. The deal aims to enhance the Strategic Defence Partnership and Corporation Instruments between the two countries.

India has significantly strengthened its defense system over the past 10 years. Defense weapons are being produced in India on a large scale. India also sells weapons to other countries. This deal between India and the UAE could further expand this sector in the future.

Production increased by 184 percent in 10 years

According to the Ministry of Defense, India's defense production was estimated at ₹53,000 crore in 2015-16, reaching ₹1,50,600 crore in 2024-25. These figures reflect the growth of domestic manufacturing and the private sector's participation in it. As production in India has increased, so has the demand for these products within the industry.

India's defense production has grown by 184% from FY16 to FY25. This increased production has also led to a significant increase in exports. Exports have grown from ₹2,100 crore in 2015-16 to ₹26,000 crore in 2025-26, representing a 1024% increase.

To which countries does India sell weapons?

SIPRI data for 2000-2024 shows that India's exports are concentrated in its neighbouring countries and the Indian Ocean region.

• 31% of India's defence exports go to Myanmar.
• India exports 18% of defence products to Sri Lanka.
• Mauritius is the third largest importer of defence products from India, accounting for 11% of India's defence exports.

Together, these three countries—Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius—account for approximately 60% of India's total defense exports. Other countries include Seychelles and Armenia, reflecting India's growing reach in the Eurasian region.

India is increasing its strength through defense deals

This deal between India and the UAE comes at a time when India is rapidly expanding its defense ties around the world. The United States is one of India's most important defense partners. Agreements between India and the United States have expanded cooperation in logistics access, secure communications, joint military exercises, and defense technology and manufacturing.

France, known for its Rafale fighter jets, is another major supplier and co-development partner. Russia, meanwhile, is a long-standing strategic ally of India. India continues to collaborate with Russia on joint projects such as missiles, aircraft, submarines, and the BrahMos missile.

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