BrahMos Gets The Glory, But India's Next Defence Export Bet May Surprise You
India's defense export strategy is shifting from reliance on the BrahMos missile to a broader portfolio including drones, autonomous systems, and precision munitions. This transition reflects global market trends favoring cost-effective, high-tech, and autonomous weaponry.
Why it matters
India's emergence as a significant exporter of modern, autonomous defense technology marks a strategic pivot in the global arms market and the country's industrial capabilities.
For years, the story of India's defence exports has had one star attraction: BrahMos.The supersonic cruise missile has become a symbol of what India can build and sell to the world. But the next phase of the export story may be far less about one big-ticket weapon and far more about a new generation of drones, precision munitions, electronics and autonomous systems.The shift is already underway.India's defence exports touched a record Rs 38,424 crore in FY26, jumping 62.66 per cent from Rs 23,622 crore a year earlier. The country now exports defence equipment to more than 80 countries, while the number of exporters has risen to 145 from 128. The numbers are impressive. But what may matter more is what India is increasingly selling.
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