India's indigenous defence production has achieved a historic milestone, reaching ₹1.78 lakh crore in the financial year 2025-26. This represents a 15.6 percent increase over the previous fiscal year and more than doubles the output recorded five years ago, according to the Ministry of Defence.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat Success
The record growth underscores the effectiveness of the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative in the defence sector. The steady expansion of the country's defence manufacturing ecosystem has been a key driver of this achievement.
Record Exports and Private Sector Role
Defence exports also touched an all-time high of ₹38,424 crore during the fiscal year. Additionally, private sector participation in defence production reached a record ₹42,000 crore, highlighting the growing contribution of private enterprises to national security.
Modernisation Plans Underway
The milestone comes amid major military modernisation plans, including the development of new fighter jets, submarines, drones, missiles, and other indigenous defence platforms. These efforts are positioning India as a rapidly emerging global defence manufacturing hub.
The Ministry of Defence stated that the consistent growth in production and exports reflects the country's commitment to self-reliance and technological advancement in defence capabilities.
