The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced on Sunday that India’s defence production is projected to reach ₹1.60 lakh crore by the fiscal year 2025-26, up from the current ₹1.27 lakh crore.
Speaking to the media ahead of Aero India 2025, Singh also revealed that defence exports have achieved a record of ₹21,000 crore this year and are expected to exceed ₹30,000 crore by the end of 2025-26.
The 16th edition of Aero India, a biennial event, is being held at the Yelahanka Indian Air Force Station in Bengaluru and will last for five days, featuring over 900 exhibitors, including around 150 international participants.
“I am pleased to report that our domestic defence production has already surpassed ₹1.27 lakh crore. By the end of the 2025-26 fiscal year, we anticipate this figure to exceed ₹1.60 lakh crore. Our defence exports have also crossed ₹21,000 crore, with expectations to surpass ₹30,000 crore by the conclusion of the same period,” Singh stated.
Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary of Defence Production, added that the Ministry is streamlining export authorization and other administrative processes to enhance arms exports. He expressed confidence in achieving these export targets, citing the quality products developed by both defence public sector undertakings (PSUs) and the private sector. He also noted that Indian defence products are gaining positive reception in international markets.
During his address, Singh highlighted the government’s commitment to establishing the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which will be an indigenously developed twin-engine multi-role fighter aircraft. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), responsible for its conceptualization and development, will showcase a prototype of the AMCA at Aero India.
Notably, both Russian and American fifth-generation stealth aircraft, the SU-57 and F-35, will be displayed during the event and participate in the flypast.
As India continues its ascent towards becoming an economic superpower, Singh emphasized the growing importance of the defence industrial sector.
“Every achievement in the defence sector not only bolsters our national security but also significantly impacts the economy. The technologies developed for defence applications often extend beyond military use, leading to civilian innovations and contributing to job creation and economic growth. Hence, the defence sector plays a vital role in driving India’s economic development,” Singh remarked.
This year’s event spans over 42,000 square meters, making it the largest Aero India edition to date.
“Defence ministers and representatives from approximately 30 countries are attending. The presence of Air Chiefs and Secretaries from 43 countries underscores the importance of this event, not only for India but for the global defence community as a whole,” he added.
