India’s defence budget allocation is a crucial aspect of national security and strategic preparedness. Over the past four years, the Indian government has consistently increased the defence budget to modernize its armed forces and enhance their operational capabilities.
Overall Defence Budget Trends
India’s defence budget has seen a steady increase over the last four years, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s defence capabilities. The budget allocation for the defence sector in the fiscal year 2023-24 was approximately Rs 5.94 lakh crores (US$72 billion), up from Rs 4.78 lakh crores (US$58 billion) in 2020-21. This increase aims to address the evolving security challenges and ensure that the armed forces are well-equipped to handle any threat.
Allocation among the Services
Indian Army
The Indian Army, being the largest branch of the armed forces, receives the lion’s share of the defence budget. In 2023-24, the Army was allocated approximately Rs 1.68 lakh crores (US$20 billion) for its various needs, including personnel costs, modernization, and infrastructure development.
Key Projects and Initiatives
Modern Infantry Combat Vehicles (MICV): The Army has been investing in upgrading its fleet of infantry combat vehicles to improve mobility and protection for its soldiers. This includes the procurement of advanced armoured vehicles with better firepower and survivability.
Artillery Modernization: Significant funds have been allocated to modernize the artillery units. This includes the induction of new howitzers like the M777 ultra-light howitzers and the K9 Vajra-T self-propelled artillery guns.
Future Infantry Soldier as a System (F-INSAS): The F-INSAS program aims to equip infantry soldiers with advanced gear, including better weaponry, communication systems, and body armour.
Aviation Assets: The Army has also focused on enhancing its aviation assets, including the procurement of Apache attack helicopters and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters to bolster its aerial capabilities.
Indian Navy
The Indian Navy has seen substantial investments aimed at enhancing its maritime capabilities. In 2023-24, the Navy’s budget allocation was approximately Rs 65,000 crores (US$7.9 billion), reflecting the emphasis on expanding and modernizing the naval fleet.
Key Projects and Initiatives
Aircraft Carriers: The commissioning of the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant in 2022 marked a significant milestone. Continued investments are being made to enhance its operational capabilities and integrate advanced systems.
Submarine Fleet: The Navy is focused on strengthening its underwater capabilities with the induction of Scorpene-class submarines under Project 75. Additionally, Project 75I aims to further expand the submarine fleet with advanced stealth features.
Frigates and Destroyers: Investments have been made in procuring new frigates and destroyers, such as the Visakhapatnam-class destroyers and the Nilgiri-class frigates, to enhance surface warfare capabilities.
Indian Air Force
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has also received significant budgetary support to maintain air superiority and enhance its combat capabilities. In 2023-24, the IAF’s allocation was approximately Rs 80,000 crores (US$9.7 billion).
Key Projects and Initiatives
Rafale Fighter Jets: The acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France has been a major investment aimed at bolstering the IAF’s air combat capabilities. The induction of these advanced jets provides a significant technological edge.
Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA): The indigenously developed Tejas LCA has seen increased investment for mass production and further upgrades. This is part of the broader push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
S-400 Air Defence Systems: The procurement of S-400 Triumf air defence systems from Russia is a strategic initiative to enhance India’s air defence capabilities against various aerial threats.
Transport and Refueling Aircraft: Investments have been made in acquiring transport aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J Super Hercules, as well as aerial refueling aircraft to extend the operational range of fighter jets.
Focus on Modernization and Indigenization
One of the significant trends in India’s defence budget allocation over the past four years is the emphasis on modernization and indigenization. The government’s “Make in India” initiative has encouraged the development and production of advanced defence technologies within the country. This approach not only enhances self-reliance but also boosts the domestic defence manufacturing sector.
Defence Research and Development
A considerable portion of the defence budget has been allocated to research and development (R&D) to support innovation and technological advancements. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies, including missiles, radar systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure development is another critical area of investment. This includes the construction of new bases, airfields, and maintenance facilities to support the operational readiness of the armed forces. Additionally, investments in cyber and space capabilities are being made to address emerging security challenges in these domains.