Indian Defence Sector Poised For Long-Term Growth As Exports Surge

India’s defence sector has undergone a major transformation over the past year, driven by strong order inflows, export growth, and record production targets, and is now regaining investor attention after a phase of price consolidation.

Rising geopolitical tensions have renewed the demand for military preparedness.

Despite ceasefires in some regions, security concerns persist. Countries are recalibrating defence budgets, and India is following suit.

Defence Exports & Production Hit New Highs

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently highlighted India’s progress. Exports jumped from ₹686 crore in FY14 to ₹23,622 crore in FY25—a 34-fold rise.

Defence production is also on track to cross ₹1.60 lakh crore this year, with a ₹3 lakh crore target set for 2029.

This marks a shift from import dependence to global supply leadership. India’s recent military performance against Pakistan validated its defence capabilities, bolstering its appeal as a reliable defence partner.

Global Trends Support Sector Growth

Global military spending hit $2,718 billion in 2024, up 9.4% year-on-year—the steepest rise since the Cold War.

This now represents 2.5% of global GDP. India’s defence budget reached $86.1 billion in 2024, ranking it among the world’s top five military spenders.

Structural reforms, including the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ push, are driving domestic defence manufacturing.

Between 2015–19 and 2020–24, India’s arms imports fell 9.3%, showing progress in self-reliance.

Looking forward, the government aims to boost defence exports to ₹50,000 crore by FY29.

This, along with rising domestic demand and supportive policies, creates a strong growth runway for listed defence firms.

For investors, this sector now shows signs of a renewed uptrend.

Backed by strong fundamentals, government focus, and global tailwinds, Indian defence stocks could be entering a long-term structural rally.

Also Read: Indian Startups Secure $139.5 Million In 21 Deals Amidst Market Uncertainty