Overview
- India reported defence exports of Rs 38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, a sharp year-on-year rise that reflects a shift from component sales to full indigenous systems.
- The Defence Ministry is reported to be preparing a Request for Proposal to invite private conglomerates to manufacture the DRDO-developed Astra Mark 2, with coverage describing the move as imminent but not yet finalized.
- Media reports name ICOMM, Adani Defence, Bharat Forge, the Tata group and the Mahindra group as likely invitees to compete for Astra Mark 2 production, which sources say has a reported range of about 180–200 km and is planned for integration with Indian fighters.
- Officials and reports indicate the Pralay tactical ballistic missile, a two-stage weapon with roughly 500 km range, is likely to be the next programme opened to private development and manufacture.
- The export surge is built on recent sales of systems such as BrahMos, Astra Mk-1 and Akash and a near-even exporter split this year (roughly 55% state DPSUs and 45% private firms), a change that could speed deliveries, expand jobs in the defence supply chain, and deepen long-term maintenance ties with buyer countries.