New Delhi: India has emerged as the third-largest exporter of defence products to the European Union, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said, highlighting the country's growing role in the global defence market. The development came as European nations increased military spending and sought reliable suppliers amid rising security concerns.
India's defence exports reached a record ₹38,424 crore in the financial year 2025–26, registering a 62.66 per cent increase over ₹23,622 crore in the previous financial year. The growth reflected rising international demand for Indian-made ammunition, military equipment and advanced weapon systems.
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A significant part of India's expanding presence in Europe came from ammunition and related products. Trade data reported on October 23 indicate that Indian shipments of ammunition and associated materials to European countries total at least $872 million in the four years following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, compared with $49.2 million in the preceding four-year period. These figures covered specific product categories rather than all defence exports.
India is also expanding exports of high-value weapon systems. The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is emerging as a major export platform, with agreements involving the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia expected to generate more than $600 million in exports, according to the Defence Secretary. Indian defence products now reached more than 80 countries.
The growing export base supported India's efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing, generate industrial opportunities and reduce dependence on imports. With European countries seeking to replenish military stocks and diversify supply chains, India is looking to expand its role as a defence supplier while continuing to develop and export more advanced indigenous systems.
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