NEW DELHI — The Press Information Bureau released a fact sheet on 28 September 2026 that highlighted India’s growing defence production capacity and its commitment to self‑reliance. The document noted a steady rise in domestic manufacturing of weapons systems, munitions and support equipment, and underscored the country’s strategic partnership with the United States.
Domestic Production Gains Momentum
The fact sheet outlined a series of milestones achieved by Indian defence firms over the past year. It cited a 12‑percent increase in the output of indigenous small arms and a 9‑percent rise in the production of artillery shells. The report also mentioned the launch of a new joint venture between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and a private‑sector partner to develop next‑generation radar systems.
Self‑Reliance as a Pillar of National Security
According to the Press Information Bureau, self‑reliance is a core element of India’s national security strategy. The fact sheet emphasized that reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for critical defence components enhances strategic autonomy. It highlighted the role of the Make in India initiative in fostering a robust domestic defence ecosystem.
India‑US Defence Partnership Expands
The fact sheet also referenced remarks made by US Ambassador Sergio Gor, who said that the growing strength of the India‑US defence partnership is evident in joint exercises and technology exchanges. While the Ambassador’s comments were reported by independent outlets, the Press Information Bureau confirmed that the partnership has led to increased joint training operations, including the annual Yudh Abhyas exercise.
Joint Exercises Reflect Growing Cooperation
Yudh Abhyas, the Indo‑US joint military exercise, has been conducted annually since 2016. The 2026 edition saw participation from 12,000 troops from both countries and included live‑fire drills, air‑to‑air refuelling, and maritime interdiction scenarios. The exercise is designed to improve interoperability between the Indian Armed Forces and the United States military.
Technology Transfer and Capacity Building
The fact sheet noted that technology transfer agreements signed in 2024 and 2025 have enabled Indian firms to acquire advanced manufacturing techniques. These agreements cover areas such as missile guidance systems, naval propulsion, and electronic warfare suites. The transfer of technology is expected to reduce import bills and create high‑skill jobs in the defence sector.
Strategic Autonomy and Global Partnerships
India’s defence strategy, as outlined by the Press Information Bureau, balances self‑reliance with selective engagement in global partnerships. The country continues to procure advanced aircraft from the United States and Russia, while simultaneously investing in indigenous alternatives. The fact sheet highlighted that the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) has been revised to give priority to domestic suppliers for critical components.
Impact on the Economy and Employment
The increased domestic production has a multiplier effect on the economy. The fact sheet cited a 3‑percent rise in employment in the defence manufacturing sector, with 15,000 new jobs created in 2025. It also mentioned that the sector’s contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) has grown from 1.2 percent in 2024 to 1.4 percent in 2025.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Press Information Bureau indicated that the government plans to launch a new “Defence Innovation Fund” to support research and development in autonomous systems and artificial intelligence. The fund aims to accelerate the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and cyber‑defence capabilities.
