India's Defence Exports At All-Time High: Who Buys And What India Sells

India's defence exports have touched an all-time high, underlining the country's growing footprint in the global arms market.

The defence ministry data shows that India's defence exports surged to Rs 38,424 crore in 2025-26, marking the highest level ever recorded. This is a nearly 25-fold increase from Rs 1,522 crore in 2016-17, highlighting a sharp expansion over the past decade.

The export trajectory shows a steady upward trend despite minor fluctuations. Defence exports crossed Rs 10,000 crore for the first time in 2018-19, dipped slightly during the pandemic years, and then accelerated sharply from 2021-22 onwards. Between 2023-24 and 2025-26 alone, exports rose from Rs 21,083 crore to Rs 38,424 crore, reflecting increased demand for Indian-made defence equipment and systems.

Who Buys India's Defence Equipment?

India's defence exports during 2016-2025 were largely concentrated among a few key buyers. Myanmar emerged as the largest destination, accounting for 28 per cent of India's total defence exports. It was followed by the Philippines (19 per cent) and Armenia (15 per cent), together making up more than 60 per cent of India's export destinations.

Neighbouring and regional countries also featured prominently. Sri Lanka accounted for 13 per cent of total exports, while island nations in the Indian Ocean region such as Mauritius (8.3 per cent) and Seychelles (six per cent) were significant buyers. Vietnam accounted for 5.5 per cent, highlighting India's growing defence ties with Southeast Asia. Other countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Morocco and Maldives collectively made up around 5 per cent of exports.

What Does India Export in Defence?

Naval platforms dominate India's defence export basket. Ships accounted for 55 per cent of the total defence exports between 2016 and 2025, far ahead of all other categories.

Artillery systems formed the second-largest category at 13 per cent, followed closely by missiles at 12 per cent. Sensors and surveillance systems accounted for nine per cent, while aircraft made up six per cent of the total exports. Air-defence systems contributed 5.3 per cent and armoured vehicles formed a marginal share of 0.3 per cent.

With a strong focus on naval systems and steady demand from regional partners, India's defence exports are not only rising rapidly but are also becoming more diversified.