India's Defence Economy
India's Reliance on Arms Imports
Why India has been one of the world's largest arms importers, who it buys from, and the risks of depending on foreign weapons.
For many years, India was the world’s largest arms importer, according to SIPRI.
Main suppliers
- Russia (and earlier the Soviet Union): historically the largest supplier, with fighter jets, tanks and submarines.
- France: Rafale jets and Scorpene submarines.
- United States: transport aircraft, helicopters and more.
- Israel: missiles, drones and radars.
Why India imported so much
- A domestic industry that struggled to deliver modern weapons.
- Urgent needs in response to threats.
- Advanced technologies that were hard to develop.
Risks
- Supply disruptions: after 2022, sanctions on Russia raised concerns over spare parts.
- Political leverage: suppliers can restrict exports.
- Foreign exchange costs.
- Lost jobs and technology at home.
Diversification
India has spread purchases across more countries, reducing Russia’s share over the past decade.
Import share falling
Government data shows a rising share of defence procurement going to domestic firms, and India’s share of global arms imports has declined somewhat.
An Indian air base needs a spare part for an older Russian-made aircraft. Sanctions and war delay delivery, keeping the aircraft grounded longer than planned.
Imports bring dependence, supply risks and lost domestic capability.
- India has been among the world's largest arms importers.
- Russia has been the largest supplier, with France, the US and Israel also key.
- Dependence creates supply and political risks.
- India is diversifying and buying more at home.
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