Buying arms, selling independence: The strategic cost of importing weapons

The politics and diplomacy underpinning global arms sales are increasingly shaping how countries approach defence procurement. While advanced weapons offer significant military advantages, the risks of long-term dependence on foreign suppliers have become an equally important consideration. Recent deliberations among NATO members over the US-led F-35 fighter programme illustrate how diplomatic disagreements can affect access to military technology. They also raise important questions for India about strategic autonomy and atmanirbharta in defence.A weapons purchase involves far more than acquiring hardware. Buyers often depend on suppliers for spare parts, software, ammunition, maintenance and upgrades throughout a platform’s service life. Export approvals, sanctions and technology-transfer restrictions can further determine how effectively a country can operate, maintain or modify its equipment.Turkey’s removal from the F-35 programme in July 2019 remains one of the clearest examples of these risks.