India’s defence sector soared to milestones in 2024, marking a year of self-reliance, innovation, and global recognition. The country transitioned from being an importer of defence equipment to a key player in the global defence market, with record-breaking production and exports.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) in defence was a central theme of the year. Speaking from the Red Fort on Independence Day, PM Modi emphasized India’s focus on indigenous manufacturing, shifting from reliance on foreign arms to local production.
The government’s push for local manufacturing is reflected in the “Positive Indigenisation Lists,” which include over 5,600 items to be sourced exclusively from Indian manufacturers.
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In the 2023-24 financial year, indigenous defence production reached Rs 1,26,887 crore, a 16.7% increase from the previous year. The Defence Ministry is targeting Rs 3 lakh crore in production by 2029. Notable achievements include the successful high-altitude firing trials of the Indian Light Tank “Zorawar,” developed by DRDO and manufactured by Larsen & Toubro.
Defence Exports Hit Record High
India’s defence exports also reached new heights in 2024. The country’s defence exports surged to Rs 21,083 crore (approximately $2.63 billion), marking a 32.5% increase from the previous year. The ministry streamlined export procedures, simplifying processes and expanding the Open General Export License (OGEL) to cover more countries. Private companies and Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) played a key role in this success, contributing approximately 60% and 40% to the exports, respectively.
Strategic Deals With US and Advanced Systems
India took a major leap in enhancing its surveillance capabilities with a multi-billion-dollar deal for 31 MQ-9B Predator drones from the United States. The deal, valued at Rs 28,000 crore ($3.3 billion), is one of India’s largest defence acquisitions. The drones will provide a significant boost to India’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region.
Along with these drones, India signed a Rs 4,350 crore deal for a maintenance and repair facility with General Atomics. This deal further strengthens India’s defence preparedness and brings high-end technology to the country.
Akashteer Project: A New Era In Air Defence
In air defence, the Indian Army’s Akashteer project has revolutionized India’s capabilities. This system automates and integrates air defence, offering a shared, real-time view of the airspace. It has undergone extensive testing, demonstrating its ability to speed up responses and prevent friendly fire incidents. The phased induction of Akashteer continues, with 107 units delivered by November 2024, and full deployment expected by 2027.
New Submarines, Ships, And Helicopters Boost Naval Power
India’s military power also grew with the induction of new submarines, ships, and helicopters. The Navy commissioned INS Arighaat, an advanced submarine, in August 2024. It also added the guided-missile frigate INS Tushil to its fleet in December 2024. Additionally, survey vessels INS Sandhayak and INS Nirdeshak were inducted in February and December, respectively. The Navy also inducted the INS Surat destroyer and made strides with seven stealth frigates currently under development.
The introduction of Drishti-10 remotely piloted aircraft and nine MH-60R helicopters marked another leap in naval capabilities. The MH-60R squadron (INAS 334) participated in major naval exercises such as MALABAR, SIMBEX, and MILAN 24.
The Indian Air Force also bolstered its fleet with the induction of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) in February 2024. These helicopters were deployed during Exercise Gagan Shakti in April, demonstrating India’s growing prowess in air defence.
Looking Ahead
As India continues to focus on self-reliance and innovation, 2024 has been a transformative year for its defence sector. With record-breaking production, strategic international partnerships, and advancements in technology, India is well on its way to becoming a global leader in defence manufacturing. The country’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities will remain a key focus in the years ahead.