New Delhi: INDIA Once a nation overly reliant on external sources for arms and military equipment, India is now a trusted defence vendor around the world. As the Western countries grapple with supply chains disrupted by global crises and the ongoing war in Ukraine, India has geared up to supply ammunition and defence equipment based on its production and strategic capacity. More importantly, India has emerged as a vital source of 155mm artillery shells, surpassing the West in terms of price, quality and delivery.
India’s Price-Performance Edge: 155mm Artillery Shells
As Reuters reports, India produces 155mm artillery shells from $300 to $400. These shells are less than a third of the cost of similar shells produced by Western nations. India is also emerging as a strategic ally of choice for the US and European countries because this price differential has put India on the radar. India is much more than a commercial success now and is viewed as an indispensable player in the global defence supply chain.
India Aims To Reach US$ 5 Billion In Defence Exports By 2029
The Indian govt. Targets to increase defence exports to more than $6 billion by 2029. Despite the sluggish pace in meeting the target (around $3.5 billion) for the last fiscal year (ending 31 March, 2023) — a shortfall of 30 per cent — compared to overall growth over the previous decade, it is nevertheless impressive. Defence exports have increased 31-fold, from ₹1,940 crore in 2013-14 to ₹21,083 crore in 2023-24. Such an expansion drives home the point that India is no longer only addressing its own defence requirements but is now a supplier of military solutions to the world.
Importance of the Private Sector in Developing the Indian Defence Industry
The participation of private companies led to the recent surge in India’s defence industry. SMPP and state-run Munition India and Adani Defence have stepped up production capacities to the extent that they have also started receiving foreign orders. SMPP CEO Ashish Kansal pointed out that there is tremendous demand for ammunition, which Indian industries have capitalized on.
India Grows its defensive portfolio
India has moved beyond small arms and parts in its defence sector. From BrahMos supersonic missiles to Tejas fighter jets and from Akash missile systems to light helicopters and naval vessels, the country has evolved into a significant player in the global defence market alongside a wide range of surveillance & reconnaissance systems. India is not only participating in the global defence market but also taking the lead in decision-making, like the $375 million deal with the Philippines for BrahMos missiles and the potential $200 million deal for the Akash system.
Strategic Concerns Driving Strong Indian Production Capacity
India, say former Navy Commander Gautam Nanda and other defence analysts, has now formidable production muscle. One of the key factors contributing to this growth is India’s strategic challenges and geographical position. India’s history with China and Pakistan has not only made it self-reliant but also transformed it into a strategic exporter of defence equipment.