Operation Sindoor has emerged as a key turning point in India's journey towards self-reliance in defense and a potential boom for defense exports. DRDO Chairman Samir V. Kamat has expressed confidence that India's defense exports are poised to double in the next two to three years, largely spurred by the success of indigenous systems during this operation. This projection aligns with the broader national goal of achieving Rs 50,000 crore in defense exports by 2028-29, a target set by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Operation Sindoor: A Showcase of Indigenous Capabilities
Operation Sindoor, launched in May 2025 in response to a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, involved missile strikes on terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan. According to the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, during the operation, the IAF shot down six Pakistani aircraft, including five fighter jets and one Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. He credited the S-400 air defense system as a "game-changer" that Pakistan could not penetrate.
The DRDO chief has emphasized that the success of Indian systems during Operation Sindoor has generated strong export prospects, with many countries expressing interest in acquiring them. Countries in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa are particularly interested in indigenous defense systems like the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), BrahMos cruise missile, and Akash surface-to-air missile system.
India's Growing Defense Exports
In recent years, India has made significant strides in increasing its defense exports. In fiscal year 2024-25, defense exports reached a record high of Rs 23,622 crore, a 12.04% increase over the previous year. This growth is a testament to the government's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) and "Make in India" initiatives, which have boosted indigenous manufacturing.
The country's defense export portfolio includes a diverse range of advanced equipment, including the BrahMos missile, Akash missile system, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher, Dornier-228 aircraft, armored vehicles, and avionics components. The United States, France, and Armenia have emerged as the top destinations for Indian defense exports.
The Path to Self-Reliance
India's journey toward self-reliance in defense has involved a strategic shift from being a major arms importer to becoming a self-sufficient manufacturing hub. The government has implemented several policy initiatives and reforms to encourage indigenous design, development, and manufacture of defense equipment. These include:
These efforts have yielded positive results. The value of defense production has climbed significantly, and the share of domestic procurement in total procurement has been on an uptrend.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the progress, India faces challenges in achieving complete self-reliance in defense. These include raw material shortages, limited production capacities, and the need for greater investment in research and development.
However, the opportunities are immense. The global ammunition market is projected to grow significantly, and India aims to capture a share of this market by becoming a reliable exporter of cost-effective, high-quality munitions. By continuing to invest in its defense industry and promoting innovation, India can strengthen its national security and become a major player in the global defense market.
