Photo credit: ANI

NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that India’s defence exports hit a record Rs 38, 424 crore in FY 2025–26, registering a 62.66% sharp surge over the previous fiscal year.The figure marks a rise of Rs 14,802 crore from Rs 23,622 crore recorded in 2024-25, reflecting strong growth in India’s defence manufacturing and export capabilities.

Highlighting the milestone, Singh credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said the growth underscores rising global confidence in India’s indigenous capabilities.“Under the inspiring leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi, India is scripting an impressive defence exports success story! India defence exports have touched a new all time high with a record Rs 38,424 crore in FY 2025-26. It marks a robust 62.66% growth over the previous fiscal. This big jump of Rs 14,802 crore in defence exports reflects the growing global trust in India’s indigenous capabilities and advanced manufacturing strength,” Singh said in a post on X.According to official data, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) accounted for 54.84% of total exports, while the private sector contributed 45.16%, highlighting the role of both segments in achieving the record.In value terms, DPSUs contributed Rs 21,071 crore, while private firms accounted for Rs 17,353 crore. DPSUs’ exports surged by 151% compared to the previous year, while private firms recorded a 14% increase. Their respective figures in 2024-25 stood at Rs 8,389 crore and Rs 15,233 crore.“With DPSUs contributing 54.84% and private industry 45.16%, this milestone showcases the power of a collaborative and self-reliant defence ecosystem,” Singh added.The latest figures mark a nearly threefold increase in defence exports over the past five years, indicating sustained momentum in India’s push to become a major global exporter of defence equipment, in line with the government’s vision.Singh also lauded the performance of the Department of Defence Production and other stakeholders, asserting that India is moving towards becoming a global manufacturing hub for defence equipment.