India's Defence Sector Sees Record Growth Amid Reforms and Execution Strategies in 2025
In 2025, India strengthened its defence capabilities through significant reforms, transitioning from policy to execution. By October, the defence ministry had utilized Rs 92,211.44 crore of the Rs 1.80 lakh crore capital outlay for FY26, compared to Rs 1.59 lakh crore in FY25.
Notable contracts included HAL's Rs 62,370 crore deal for 97 LCA Mk-1A aircraft and new orders for Bharat Electronics and Bharat Dynamics. The Indian Army also contracted Larsen & Toubro for BvS10 Sindhu vehicles.
The combined order book for private defence firms is projected to increase to Rs 55,000 crore by FY26. Defence exports rose significantly, with domestic production now at 65%. The defence budget for 2025-26 reached over Rs 6.81 lakh crore, with acquisitions exceeding Rs 4.30 lakh crore. The year also saw advancements in indigenous technology and private sector participation, contributing to a vision of self-reliance in defence.
