India's defence production has more than doubled in five years, reaching a record Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, marking a major milestone in the country's drive towards military self-reliance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted the evolution of India's indigenous defence ecosystem by resharing a MyGovIndia post showcasing key weapons platforms and strategic systems developed or inducted over the past decade.
Record Defence Production Figures
The Ministry of Defence announced that defence production rose 15.6% from Rs 1.54 lakh crore in FY 2024-25 and more than doubled from Rs 84,643 crore in FY 2020-21. Indigenous defence manufacturing has nearly quadrupled from Rs 43,746 crore in FY 2013-14, reflecting the government's push for Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the strategic sector.
Tejas: Indigenous Fighter Programme
The Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has emerged as a symbol of India's indigenous aerospace ambitions. The Indian Air Force operates Tejas Mk-1 fighters and is preparing for large-scale induction of Tejas Mk-1A aircraft. Development of the larger Tejas Mk-2 and the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is expected to further strengthen domestic aerospace capabilities.
Akash: Air Defence Shield
The Akash surface-to-air missile system has become a key pillar of India's layered air defence network. MyGovIndia stated: "The Akash missile system has emerged as a key pillar of India's air defence architecture. Operational with the armed forces and gaining international interest, it showcases India's growing defence capabilities. The next-generation Akash-NG further enhances performance with faster reaction times, improved target tracking, and stronger interception capability."
Pinaka: Artillery Force Multiplier
India's indigenous Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system has transformed the Army's battlefield firepower. MyGovIndia noted: "Pinaka has transformed India's artillery capabilities with its mobility, precision, and indigenous design. Developed to deliver rapid and effective battlefield support, the system has continuously evolved with enhanced range and strike accuracy. Today, Pinaka stands as a key pillar of India's modern artillery strength."
Agni-V: Strategic Deterrence
The long-range Agni-V ballistic missile marked a major step forward in strategic deterrence. The successful testing of Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology enables a single missile to carry multiple warheads aimed at separate targets. MyGovIndia said: "Agni-V marked a major milestone in India's strategic defence capabilities. With the successful testing of Agni-V equipped with MIRV technology, a single missile can carry multiple warheads aimed at different targets. This achievement places India among a select group of nations with this advanced capability, strengthening India's strategic deterrence."
Hypersonic Ambitions: Suryastra
India's successful hypersonic missile technology demonstration represents a significant technological breakthrough. Hypersonic systems travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5. According to MyGovIndia: "India's successful hypersonic missile technology test marked a major milestone in strategic defence capability. This breakthrough places India among a select group of nations shaping the future of advanced warfare technologies."
INS Arihant: Nuclear Triad Completion
The induction of INS Arihant, India's first indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, completed India's nuclear triad. MyGovIndia said: "The induction of INS Arihant marked a historic milestone in India's strategic defence journey. By completing the nuclear triad, India gained credible sea-based nuclear deterrence alongside land and air capabilities. This significantly strengthened the nation's second-strike capability, enhanced strategic stability, and reinforced India's long-term security architecture."
INS Vikrant: Aircraft Carrier Capability
The commissioning of INS Vikrant, India's first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier, showcases growing naval shipbuilding capability. MyGovIndia said: "INS Vikrant represents the rise of India's indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. As the country's first indigenous aircraft carrier, it serves as a floating airbase and a symbol of technological achievement. Its induction places India among a select group of nations capable of designing and building aircraft carriers."
Nilgiri-Class Frigates and Naval Modernisation
India's maritime modernisation has accelerated through indigenous warship programmes such as Project 17A Nilgiri-class stealth frigates and Project 15B Visakhapatnam-class destroyers. According to MyGovIndia: "India's naval modernisation has accelerated through indigenous platforms such as Project 17A stealth frigates, Project 15B destroyers, and Kalvari-class submarines. These advanced systems have strengthened maritime security, air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and underwater combat capabilities across strategic waters."
BrahMos and Missile Ecosystem
India's missile development programme has expanded into a broader ecosystem. MyGovIndia highlighted: "From the globally acclaimed BrahMos missile to Astra and Rudram, India has built a robust indigenous missile ecosystem. These systems have enhanced strike capability, beyond-visual-range engagement, and anti-radar operations, reinforcing India's position as a growing force in advanced defence technologies." The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile remains one of India's most successful defence exports.
C-295: Aerospace Manufacturing Ecosystem
The C-295 transport aircraft programme, produced in partnership between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems, is establishing India's first private-sector military aircraft production line. According to MyGovIndia: "The C-295 programme marks a new chapter in India's aerospace journey. Beyond enhancing tactical airlift capabilities, it is helping build a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem, expanding private-sector participation, and strengthening indigenous aviation expertise, reinforcing the vision of an Aatmanirbhar defence industry."
Record Production and Exports
Government data shows defence public sector undertakings accounted for around 76% of total production in FY 2025-26, while private sector participation reached a record 24%, contributing nearly Rs 42,000 crore. India also recorded defence exports worth Rs 38,424 crore during the fiscal year, another record high. Platforms ranging from Tejas and Akash to Arihant and Vikrant illustrate India's transformation from an import-dependent military power to a country increasingly capable of designing, building and exporting advanced defence systems.
