India, World’s 2nd Largest Arms Importer in 2021-25 with 8.2% Global Share
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that India was the world’s second-largest importer of major arms from 2021 to 2025, receiving 8.2% of total global arms imports. Despite a 4% decline from 2016-20 levels, this underscores India’s continued reliance on foreign weapon supplies amidst border tensions, especially with China and Pakistan. Russia remained India’s largest supplier but its share dropped to 40%, while France and Israel emerged as major alternate suppliers with 29% and 15% shares respectively.
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Key Facts
- India accounted for 8.2% of global major arms imports during 2021–25, making it the world’s second-largest importer.
- Arms imports declined by 4% compared to the 2016–20 period.
- Russia was India’s largest arms supplier in 2021–25, but its share dropped to 40% from 70% in 2011–15.
- France and Israel were the second and third largest suppliers in 2021–25 with 29% and 15% shares respectively.
- India's arms imports are driven by ongoing tensions with China and Pakistan, which have frequently led to armed conflicts.
Background & Context
Though India is progressing in domestic defence production, it remains heavily dependent on foreign arms imports. Over the last decade, India has diversified its suppliers, decreasing reliance on Russia while increasing imports from Western countries such as France, Israel, and the USA. The continued border tensions with China and Pakistan necessitate sustained procurement of major arms.
Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance
Key for understanding India’s defence procurement strategy, international alliances, and security environment. Awareness of major arms suppliers and import trends assists in questions concerning defence policies and geopolitics.
Points to Remember
- India held 8.2% of global arms imports (2021–25), ranking 2nd worldwide.
- Largest arms supplier: Russia (40% share in 2021–25).
- Other major suppliers: France (29%), Israel (15%).
- Arms imports fell by 4% compared to 2016–20.
- Imports driven by ongoing border tensions with China and Pakistan.
Sources & Further Reading
| Document / Website | Link |
|---|---|
| India Ranks as World’s 2nd Largest Arms Importer in 2021–25, SIPRI | Open India Ranks as World’s 2nd Largest Arms Importer in 2021–25, SIPRI ↗www.gktoday.in |
| India was world’s 2nd largest importer of arms in 2021–25: SIPRI | Open India was world’s 2nd largest importer of arms in 2021–25: SIPRI ↗economictimes.indiatimes.com |
| India Was the World's Second-Largest Arms Importer in 2021-25, SIPRI Data Shows | Open India Was the World's Second-Largest Arms Importer in 2021-25, SIPRI Data Shows ↗m.thewire.in |
| India: World's 2nd Largest Arms Importer – SIPRI - SPM IAS Academy | Open India: World's 2nd Largest Arms Importer – SIPRI - SPM IAS Academy ↗spmiasacademy.com |