India Remains World’s Second-Largest Arms Importer: SIPRI Report

SIPRI Highlights India’s Defence Import Trends and Supplier Diversification

India continues to rank as the second-largest arms importer globally , according to a recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute . The study examines trends in international arms transfers during 2021–2025 and notes that although India’s defence imports declined slightly compared with the 2016–2020 period, the country still depends on foreign suppliers for several advanced military systems. The findings also reflect India’s ongoing effort to balance external procurement with domestic defence production.

Decline in Imports and Push for Self-Reliance

The report indicates that India’s arms imports fell by roughly 4 percent between the two reporting periods. This decrease is partly linked to initiatives aimed at strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat programme. India has increased domestic production of equipment such as missiles, artillery platforms and naval vessels. Nevertheless, the country still imports complex systems including advanced fighter aircraft, air defence platforms and specialised military technology.

Russia’s Role in India’s Defence Procurement

Russia remains India’s largest arms supplier, accounting for about 40 percent of imports during 2021–25. However, this share has steadily declined from 51 percent in the previous reporting period and nearly 70 percent during 2011–15. The reduction reflects India’s strategy to diversify defence partnerships and expand procurement from other international suppliers.

Growing Importance of France and Israel

France has emerged as the second-largest supplier of major arms to India, contributing approximately 24 percent of total imports. Defence cooperation between the two nations is expected to deepen as India explores acquiring additional Dassault Rafale fighter jets. Meanwhile, Israel accounts for around 15 percent of India’s defence imports, particularly in areas such as unmanned systems, missile technology and air defence solutions.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• SIPRI: International research institute monitoring global arms transfers and defence trends.

• India: Ranked second-largest arms importer globally in 2021–25.

• Top Supplier: Russia with about 40% share of India’s arms imports.

• Other Key Suppliers: France and Israel.

• United States: Largest global arms exporter with about 42% share .