The year 2024 marked a critical chapter in India’s defence evolution, as the Ministry of Defence (MoD) propelled the nation closer to its vision of being a strong, secure, and self-reliant global power. Building on its commitment to Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), India achieved remarkable progress in modernising its defence infrastructure, reducing dependency on imports, and strengthening its position as a major defence exporter. From record-breaking defence production and exports to groundbreaking technological advancements and strategic inductions, the year demonstrated India’s growing capabilities to meet both national security needs and global defence expectations.

Aatmanirbharta in Defence

India’s relentless focus on Aatmanirbharta or self-reliance in defence took centre stage in 2024 with the unveiling of the Positive Indigenisation List (PIL). In July 2024, the Department of Defence Production (DDP) announced the fifth PIL, comprising 346 critical items, including weapons systems, sensors, and key components for defence production. The goal is to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign imports, particularly in strategically vital sectors like aerospace, armaments, and ammunition. With the addition of this new list, India has now indigenised a total of 4,996 items, including 2,972 items worth Rs 3,400 crore, directly contributing to the nation’s self-sufficiency in defence.

Another significant achievement in the drive for self-reliance was the record-breaking growth in indigenous defence production. The MoD reported a staggering 16.7% increase in defence production, which reached Rs 1,26,887 crore in FY 2023-24. This was the highest growth in value terms to date, underscoring the effectiveness of government policies and initiatives. The public sector undertakings (DPSUs) and other PSUs accounted for 79.2% of the total production, while the private sector contributed 20.8%. This growth has laid the foundation for the government’s ambitious goal to reach Rs 3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029.

Record-Breaking Defence Exports

In line with its self-reliance agenda, India has also emerged as a significant player in global defence exports. Defence exports surged to a historic Rs 21,083 crore (approx. $2.63 billion) in FY 2023-24, marking a 32.5% growth compared to the previous year. Over the past decade, Indian defence exports have grown 31-fold, cementing India’s status as a key exporter in the global defence market. The Indian private sector played a critical role in this growth, contributing about 60% of the export value, while DPSUs accounted for the remaining 40%. India is on track to achieve the target of Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, further boosting its strategic influence worldwide.

Technological Advancements and Major Defence Platforms

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2024 also saw remarkable strides in technological advancements and the induction of new defence platforms. One of the landmark achievements was the inauguration of the TATA Aircraft Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat, where the C-295 transport aircraft will be manufactured. This project, a collaboration with Airbus Defence and Space, will see 40 of the 56 aircraft built in India, reinforcing the nation’s capabilities in defence aerospace. This project aligns with the government’s broader vision to transform India into a global hub for defence manufacturing.

Another significant technological milestone was the Indian Light Tank (ILT) ‘Zorawar’, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro. The tank successfully completed rigorous trials, including high-altitude tests at over 4,200 meters, proving its robustness and precision in difficult terrains. This development significantly enhances India’s strategic defence options, especially in border regions where mobility and firepower are critical.

Indigenous Naval Capabilities: Strengthening Maritime Defence

India’s naval capabilities also received a significant boost in 2024. The INS Arighaat, the second Arihant-class nuclear-powered submarine, was commissioned into the Indian Navy on August 29, 2024. This submarine, designed and built with indigenous technology, adds immense strategic depth to India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. With its advanced systems and technologies, INS Arighaat stands as a testament to India’s growing expertise in the field of naval defence.

In December, the Indian Navy also inducted the INS Tushil, a state-of-the-art multi-role stealth frigate built under the Krivak III class. Commissioned in Kaliningrad, Russia, INS Tushil is equipped with the latest in missile systems and is capable of operating across air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic domains, providing a significant boost to India’s blue-water naval operations.

Major Inductions and Defence Modernisation

2024 saw several major inductions that enhanced India’s defence readiness. The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand was fully inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in February 2024. The LCH was rigorously tested during Ex Gagan Shakti, demonstrating its capabilities in high-altitude operations. These helicopters, designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), are critical for operations in the challenging terrains of the Himalayas.

Additionally, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 4,22,129 crore. Of these, a substantial portion — 94% — is aimed at procuring systems and equipment from domestic sources. Notable acquisitions include advanced air defence systems, combat vehicles, naval vessels, and aircraft, all of which will significantly enhance India’s strategic capabilities across all domains.

Strategic Defence Contracts and Global Collaborations

India also signed key strategic defence contracts in 2024, further strengthening its military capabilities. One of the most notable was a deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from the United States, a significant step towards enhancing India’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Additionally, a contract with General Atomics for the maintenance and repair of these drones was also inked, ensuring the operational readiness of these cutting-edge platforms.

Further, India strengthened its relationship with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), signing a contract for the purchase of 240 AL-31FP aero engines for the Su-30MKI fighter aircraft, valued at Rs 26,000 crore. Other notable contracts included the acquisition of BrahMos missiles, K9 Vajra-T artillery systems, and advanced light helicopters.

Future Outlook: A Stronger, Self-Reliant India

Looking ahead, the achievements of 2024 set a strong foundation for India’s future in defence. With a focus on self-reliance, indigenous production, and strategic partnerships, India is positioning itself as a dominant force in the global defence landscape. The continued expansion of defence production and export capabilities, along with the induction of advanced platforms and technologies, will ensure that India remains prepared to meet both current and future security challenges.

 As India aspires to become a $5 trillion economy by 2029, its growing defence sector will play a critical role in securing its place as a global power, contributing not only to national security but also to economic prosperity. With an unwavering commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities, 2024 stands as a testimony to India’s journey towards becoming a strong, secure, and self-reliant nation.