India’s Defence Exports Poised for Growth with War-Tested Equipment

India’s defense exports are poised for a significant boost following the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, which has validated the effectiveness of indigenous military equipment. Samir V Kamat, Chairperson of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), expressed optimism about increased international interest in India’s defense products during the CII Annual Business Summit 2025. He emphasized that the war-tested status of these weapons will likely attract new buyers, expanding India’s current defense export footprint, which already includes over a hundred nations.

Operation Sindoor’s Impact on Defense Exports

The recent Operation Sindoor has marked a pivotal moment for India’s defense sector, as it has demonstrated the reliability and effectiveness of domestically produced military equipment. Samir V Kamat highlighted that the successful deployment of these weapons has instilled confidence in potential international buyers. “I am hopeful that exports will increase after Operation Sindoor because now these (equipments) have been war-tested,” Kamat stated. He believes that this newfound credibility will encourage countries that have not previously engaged with India to consider purchasing its defense products. Currently, India exports defense equipment to over a hundred nations, and Kamat anticipates that this number will grow as interest in war-tested equipment rises.

Advancements in Fighter Aircraft Development

In addition to the boost in defense exports, Kamat discussed the newly approved execution model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This model allows for greater participation from the private sector in the development of fighter aircraft, a significant shift in India’s defense manufacturing landscape. The defense ministry sanctioned this model on May 27, aiming to enhance domestic defense capabilities. The Aeronautical Development Agency will oversee the program, fostering collaboration between industry players. Kamat explained that this execution model ensures equal opportunities for both private and public sectors, allowing them to bid independently or form joint ventures. This inclusive approach is expected to stimulate innovation and efficiency in the development of advanced fighter jets.

Timeline for AMCA Development

The development timeline for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is ambitious, with Kamat projecting completion by 2034 and production set to commence in 2035. The first prototype flight is scheduled for late 2029. During the CII plenary session, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the government’s commitment to the AMCA project, which aims to produce five prototypes of a fifth-generation fighter jet. This initiative is a cornerstone of the ‘Make in India’ campaign, promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Singh noted that this project marks a significant achievement in fostering collaboration between government and industry partners, allowing private sector entities to participate alongside public sector companies in a major defense initiative.

Promoting Self-Reliance in Defense

The AMCA project is not just about developing advanced fighter jets; it is also a strategic move towards achieving Atmanirbharta, or self-reliance, in defense. This initiative represents a landmark shift in India’s defense policy, as it opens the door for private sector involvement in a traditionally public sector-dominated field. By allowing private companies to engage in the development process, the government aims to harness the innovative capabilities of the private sector while enhancing the overall competitiveness of India’s defense industry. Kamat’s remarks reflect a broader vision of transforming India’s defense landscape, ensuring that the country not only meets its own security needs but also emerges as a key player in the global defense market.

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