India’s is World’s Largest Arms Importer Once Again: SIPRI

India’s is World’s Largest Arms Importer

India has once again emerged as the world’s largest arms importer for the period 2019-2023, according to a recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The report highlights India’s major role in global arms trade dynamics, with its arms imports increasing by 4.7% compared to the previous five-year period (2014-2018).

What Factors Contributed to India’s Increased Arms Imports?

India’s strategic and defense priorities accompanied with regional tensions have been the primary drivers behind India’s increased arms imports. The country faces long-standing tensions with neighboring Pakistan and China, which have led to security concerns and a perceived need for a strong military. India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces and enhance its strategic autonomy have also contributed to the demand for advanced weapons systems.

Noatably, India has been diversifying its arms suppliers in recent years, moving away from its traditional partner Russia. This shift in India’s arms procurement trends has led to increased imports from other major exporters like France and the United States.

Who Were the Top Arms Exporters to India?

Russia continued to be India’s main arms supplier during 2019-2023, accounting for 36% of its total arms imports. However, this was the first five-year period since 1960-1964 when Russia’s share fell below 50%. The decline in Russian exports to India can be attributed to factors such as strong competition from other suppliers, increased domestic production by India, and constraints related to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

France and the United States emerged as significant arms exporters to India during this period. France accounted nearly 30% of India’s arms imports, while the US supplied 13%. The largest recipient of French arms exports was India, primarily due to the delivery of 62 combat aircraft. This made France the second-largest supplier to India, displacing the US.

How Do India’s Arms Imports Compare Globally?

India’s share of global arms imports stood at 9.8% during 2019-2023 according to SIPRI. Among the top arms importers, India was followed by Saudi Arabia (8.4%), Qatar (7.6%), Ukraine (4.9%), Pakistan (4.3%), Japan (4.1%), Egypt (4.0%), Australia (3.7%), South Korea (3.1%), and the China (2.9%).

The total global arms imports saw a decline of 3.3% between 2014-2018 and 2019-2023. However, imports by European states increased sharply by 94% during the same period, largely driven by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The Middle East remained a high-volume importer of arms, with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt ranking among the top importers.

What Are the Implications of India’s Arms Imports?

India’s position as the world’s top arms importer has big implications for regional security dynamics, particularly in its relations with Pakistan and China. The increased arms imports by India, Pakistan, and other countries in the region have the potential to fuel an arms race and heighten tensions.

At the same time, India’s arms imports play a crucial role in its defense modernization efforts and pursuit of strategic autonomy. The current trend of diversifying its supplier base and investing in domestic production capabilities, shows India aims to reduce its dependence on external sources and strengthen its indigenous defense industry.

How Has the Global Arms Trade Shifted During 2019-23?

The global arms trade landscape witnessed notable shifts during 2019-2023. The United States maintained its dominant position as the world’s leading arms exporter, with a 17% increase in exports and a 42% share of the global market. France overtook Russia to become the second-largest exporter, with a 47% increase in exports and an 11% market share.

Russia, on the other hand, saw a steep decline of 53% in its arms exports, falling to the third position. This decline can be attributed to factors such as increased competition, sanctions related to the Ukraine war, and a shift in focus towards domestic demand.

European countries significantly increased their arms imports, particularly in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukraine itself became a major arms importer in 2022, with the United States and many European states providing military aid.

What Are the Future Trends in Arms Imports and Exports?

India’s future arms procurement will be influenced by its ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic production capabilities and further diversify its supplier base.

Geopolitical developments, such as the evolving security situation in the Indo-Pacific region and the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, are expected to shape global arms trade patterns in the coming years. The sustained high levels of arms imports by countries like Japan, South Korea, and Australia, driven by concerns over China’s ambitions, will continue to drive arm’s demand in the region.

Final Thoughts

India’s position as the world’s top arms importer during 2019-2023 shows its major role in the global arms trade. While Russia remains India’s major arms supplier, the diversification of supplier base by India and the rise of France and the United States as key exporters points to the changing dynamics of the international arms market.