Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

Arms deals: India moves away from Russia; Pakistan from the U.S

Explained | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

Why in the News?

Recently, India’s Operation Sindoor has put the spotlight on the evolving nature of India and Pakistan’s defence procurement strategies.

What is the situation of India’s defence import pattern?

  • Russia’s share in Indian defence imports has decreased from 96.5% in the 1990s to 75% in the 2020s.
  • India now imports over 9% from France, 5.5% from the UK, nearly 5% from Israel, and 3% from the US. Over 55% of India’s air-power weapons in the 2020s have come from France, the UK, and Israel, indicating greater reliance on Western technology in a critical combat domain.

Why is India moving away from Russia?

  • Strategic Diversification: To avoid overdependence on a single supplier, India is diversifying defence partnerships. Eg: India’s growing defence ties with France (e.g., Rafale jets) and the U.S. (e.g., Apache helicopters, Predator drones).
  • Technological Advancement and Reliability: Western nations and Israel offer more advanced, precise, and reliable weapon systems. Eg: Israeli-origin SkyStriker drone used in Operation Sindoor reflects a shift toward high-tech partners.
  • Geopolitical and Logistical Concerns: Sanctions on Russia post-Ukraine war have raised concerns about timely deliveries and spare parts. Eg: India faces delays in Russian S-400 missile system deliveries due to global sanctions and supply chain disruptions.

What types of foreign weapons did India and Pakistan use during Operation Sindoor?

  • India’s Use of Israeli and Russian Weapons: India deployed Israeli-origin weapons like the SkyStriker drone and Russian-made systems such as the Pechoraand OSA-AK missiles. Eg: The SkyStriker was used for precision strikes, while Pechora missiles were used for air defence.
  • Pakistan’s Use of Chinese and Turkish Systems: Pakistan used Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles and Turkish-origin Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Eg: PL-15, a long-range air-to-air missile, reflects Pakistan’s military dependence on China.

Why is China now the dominant arms supplier for Pakistan?

  • Strategic Partnership and Regional Alignment: China and Pakistan share a strong geopolitical alliance, rooted in regional rivalry with India. Eg: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has strengthened military and economic ties.
  • Decline of U.S. Defence Cooperation: Pakistan’s ties with the United States have weakened, especially due to shifting U.S. strategic priorities and concerns over terrorism. Eg: The U.S. share in Pakistan’s arms imports dropped from 67% in the 2000s to 0.85% in the 2020s.
  • Cost-Effective and Tailored Equipment: China offers affordable, adaptable military technology suited to Pakistan’s needs. Eg: Weapons like the JF-17 fighter jet and HQ-9 air defence systems are co-developed or exported specifically for Pakistan.

Who leads the global arms export market?

  • United States – Global Leader: The United States dominates global arms exports, accounting for over 65% of the world’s exports in the 2020s. Eg: U.S. exports advanced systems like F-35 fighter jets, Patriot missile systems, and drones to allies worldwide.
  • Russia – Declining Influence: Russia’s share has significantly dropped to around 5% due to factors like the Ukraine war, sanctions, and reduced trust. Eg: Former major buyers like India have reduced reliance on Russian defence supplies.
  • China – Minimal Global Share but Focused Exports: China holds less than 2% of global exports but plays a critical regional role, especially with Pakistan. Eg: Nearly 33% of China’s limited arms exports go to Pakistan, highlighting strategic alignment rather than market dominance.

What is the situation of Indian arms exports? 

  • Emerging Exporter with Limited Share: India is still a minor player in the global arms export market, contributing less than 1% of total global arms exports. Eg: India exports light arms and defence equipment to countries like Vietnam, Myanmar, and African nations.
  • Focus on Indigenous Defence Systems: India is boosting domestic production under initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and Defence Export Policy 2020, aiming to become an exporter. Eg: Systems like Akash missile, Pinaka rocket launcher, and BrahMos (jointly developed with Russia) are promoted for export.

Way forward: 

  • Accelerate Indigenous Defence Manufacturing: Expand R&D investment and incentivize private sector participation to develop cutting-edge technologies and reduce reliance on imports. Eg: Fast-tracking indigenous programs like AMCA fighter jet and integrating startups under iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence).
  • Forge Strategic Export Alliances: Target defence exports through strategic partnerships and defence diplomacy, focusing on friendly nations in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Eg: Boost exports of systems like BrahMos and Akash missiles through government-to-government deals and defence expos.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2020] What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Linkage:  The article talks about the “India and Pakistan Arms Procurement Trends” explicitly notes that India has been gradually reducing its dependence on Russia and increasingly turning to Western countries such as the U.S., France, and the U.K., as well as Israel, for its arms imports.

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