India remains the world’s second-largest importer of major arms, according to the latest report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). Between 2021 and 2025, India accounted for 8.2% of total global arms imports, second only to Ukraine.
Despite India’s push to boost domestic defence manufacturing under the Make in India initiative, the country continues to depend on foreign suppliers to meet its security requirements and modernise its armed forces.
The report also notes that Russia remains India’s largest defence supplier, accounting for around 40% of India’s arms imports during the period. However, Russia’s share has declined compared with earlier years as India gradually diversifies its procurement to countries such as France and Israel.
India’s defence purchases are largely driven by its strategic environment, including long-standing security challenges and tensions with China and Pakistan, which require continued military modernisation and advanced weapon systems.
Overall, the SIPRI findings highlight that while India is increasing domestic production, arms imports remain a key part of its defence strategy as the country balances self-reliance with evolving security needs.
