Arming and Aiming

India has taken a giant leap from being the world’s second largest importer of defence equipment to becoming an export hub. To boost exports, the government has banned imports of 411 defence platforms apart from thousands of systems and sub-systems. Apart from exporting to 75 countries, India is now eyeing defence exports worth Rs 35000 crore by 2025.

Reducing its defence import-dependency is adding heft to India’s geopolitical ambitions. Manufacturing its own defence equipment and exporting to the world goes with its new-found status as an emerging superpower. Exporting equipment to friendly countries reduces their dependence on India’s adversaries, particularly in the neighbourhood. It bolsters India’s position in regional groupings and strengthens its claims for a permanent place in the UN Security Council.

The BrahMos missile has become the first option of many South East Asian countries afraid of China's Navy. Brahmos Aerospace is an Indo-Russian consortium where India holds 51 per cent stake. Its recent export successes are inspired by the government's renewed focus on defence exports to achieve self-sufficiency and its 'Act East' policy.