India approves $11.6 billion in military purchases, mostly from domestic manufacturers
India has granted preliminary approval for the purchase of military hardware and equipment worth $11.6 billion. About 98% of these purchases are planned to be made from Indian industry, Defense News reports.
The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted “in-principle” approval, allowing the procurement process to begin. India’s Ministry of Defence specified the corresponding share of domestic purchases.
Equipment for three branches of the armed forces
For the army, purchases of advanced light helicopters, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear reconnaissance vehicles, minelaying vehicles, highly mobile vehicles and portable bridges for crossings over rivers and difficult terrain were approved.
The navy is to receive new surveillance radars to replace obsolete systems at naval air bases. Funding is also provided for the domestic design and development of marine gas turbines. India builds its own warships but still imports power plants.
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For the Air Force, a ground-based multi-purpose electronic warfare system was approved, as well as unspecified equipment to enhance the combat capabilities of fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters. Funds for the purchases will be allocated from the $86 billion annual defence budget approved earlier this year.
The role of the private sector
Indian authorities say that about 65% of the country’s military equipment is now produced domestically. Ten years ago, about two-thirds of such equipment was imported. In the 2025–2026 financial year, private companies produced nearly a quarter of defence equipment with a total value of about $20 billion.
Private manufacturers in India produce radars, artillery systems, armored vehicles, missiles, ammunition, drones, small arms, aircraft structural components and maritime systems. At the same time, some products, including drones, contain imported sensors and avionics, while the country also depends on foreign suppliers for key platforms, including fighter jets.
