New Delhi: India has retained its status as the worlds largest arms importer, despite efforts to fortify its defence-industrial base and reduce dependence on foreign arms acquisitions. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India accounted for 9.8 per cent of global arms imports during the period of 2019-2023, marking a 4.7 per cent increase from the preceding five years.Diversification of arms sourcesWhile Russia remains Indias primary arms supplier, constituting 36 per cent of its arms imports, India has been diversifying its sources by turning to Western countries and domestic manufacturers. The surge in emergency procurements, particularly amid military tensions with China, has prompted India to seek arms acquisitions from nations like Russia, France, the US, and Israel.Changing dynamics of arms importsFrance and the US have emerged as major beneficiaries of Indias arms acquisitions, accounting for 33 per cent and 13 per cent of imports, respectively. India is poised to engage in substantial deals with these countries, including agreements for armed drones and fighter jets worth billions of dollars. However, challenges persist in Indias pursuit of self-reliance in defence production, notably with initiatives like the strategic partnership (SP) model facing implementation hurdles.Shift in arms suppliersThe SIPRI report highlights a significant shift in Indias arms imports, with deliveries from the Soviet Union/Russia comprising less than half for the first time since 1960–64. Russian-made weapon exports to India have witnessed a notable decline of 34 per cent between 2014–18 and 2019–23.Global arms import dynamicsIndia leads the list of top arms importers, followed by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Ukraine, Pakistan, Japan, Egypt, Australia, South Korea, and China. Meanwhile, the US, France, and Russia are the top arms exporters, with the US increasing its overall share by 17 per cent between 2014-18 and 2019-23, surpassing Russia.Challenges and opportunities for IndiaDespite initiatives like Make in India aimed at boosting indigenous defence manufacturing, significant hurdles remain. Projects under the SP model are yet to materialize fully, raising concerns about pricing, long-term orders, and technology transfer. Indias limited success in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) underscores the need for a revamped approach to achieve self-reliance in defence.With ambitious defence modernization projects awaiting progress, experts advocate for a comprehensive overhaul of policies and strategies to ensure Indias strategic autonomy and security.
