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India’s defence sector made significant strides in 2024, boosting self-reliance and global partnerships. The government restored stability on the LAC, increased indigenous production by 16.7%, and achieved record defence exports. Key milestones included the successful trials of the ‘Zorawar’ tank, commissioning of INS Arighaat, and deployment of AI-powered counter-drone technologies. Women broke barriers in combat roles, while enhanced border infrastructure strengthened operational readiness. These advancements position India as a rising global defence leader.
NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Defence’s annual review highlights a transformative year for India’s defence sector. Guided by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, 2024 witnessed unprecedented advancements in self-reliance, strategic infrastructure, and global collaborations.
2024 has been a year of transformative achievements in India’s #defencesector. Under the leadership of PM @narendramodi and Raksha Mantri @rajnathsingh, the Ministry of Defence has worked with renewed vigour to make India stronger, more secure, and self-reliant. Focusing on…
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) December 26, 2024
A significant milestone was achieved on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, where a mutual consensus restored stability in critical areas. This diplomatic and military success underscores India’s commitment to peaceful resolutions while maintaining operational readiness along sensitive borders.
The defence manufacturing sector achieved remarkable growth, with indigenous production hitting ₹1,26,887 crore—a 16.7% increase from the previous year. The private sector’s 20.8% contribution marks an era of collaborative innovation. Notable developments include the inauguration of the TATA Aircraft Complex in Vadodara, poised to deliver India-made C-295 transport aircraft by 2026.
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Exports reached ₹21,083 crore, growing 32.5% year-over-year. The sector’s ambitious target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029 seems within grasp, thanks to increasing private and public sector synergy.
India achieved significant technological milestones in defence modernisation this year. The Indian Light Tank (ILT) ‘Zorawar’ successfully completed rigorous trials in high-altitude and desert terrains, showcasing the nation’s expertise in advanced combat vehicle engineering. In the naval domain, key acquisitions included INS Arighaat, a modern nuclear submarine, and INS Tushil, a stealth-guided missile frigate, both enhancing maritime strength. Additionally, the Indian Air Force advanced its operational autonomy by integrating indigenous counter-drone technologies, underscoring the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defence.
The induction of women into combat roles and leadership positions has shattered barriers. Highlights include Lt. Gen. Sadhna Saxena Nair’s appointment as the first female DGMS (Army) and the deployment of women officers in UN peacekeeping missions.
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Border infrastructure projects advanced significantly. The Border Roads Organisation laid out plans for 470 roads spanning 27,000 km by 2028. Critical developments included enhanced troop facilities in Sikkim and the Creek Sector, reflecting India’s operational foresight.
From aiding flood victims in Kerala to international support during Cyclone Hidaya, India’s armed forces demonstrated exceptional capability in disaster response. With 83 humanitarian deployments across 14 states, the Indian Army rescued nearly 30,000 civilians.
Innovations and digital transformation in the defense sector have flourished through initiatives such as iDEX and the Technology Development Fund, which have fostered the growth of defense startups. These initiatives have driven advancements in AI-powered systems and automated processes, seamlessly integrating them into defense operations. As a result, there has been a significant enhancement in efficiency and situational awareness, ensuring that military strategies and responses are more agile and informed than ever before.
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As 2024 closes, the Ministry of Defence’s focus on indigenisation, technology infusion, and international cooperation positions India as a rising defence powerhouse. With defence spending ₹6.22 lakh crore,(approx. US $75 Billion), the highest among the Ministries, India is poised to achieve unparalleled milestones in national security and global influence.
