A Surge in Indigenous Production and Exports
According to government data, India’s defence production reached a record ₹1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023–24, up dramatically from just ₹46,429 crore in FY 2014–15—representing a 174% increase (India Defence News). That momentum continued into FY 2024–25, with production hitting an unprecedented ₹1.50 lakh crore, marking an 18% year-on-year rise and a 90% surge since FY 2019–20 (The Economic Times, India Today).
Exports, too, have seen extraordinary growth, climbing from approximately ₹1,500 crore in 2014 to over ₹21,000 crore in FY 2023–24 (ETGovernment.com, makeinindiadefence.com, ibgnews.com). Further progress followed, with exports hitting ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024–25 (ETGovernment.com, India Today). The government now aims to push defence exports to ₹50,000 crore by 2029 (ETGovernment.com, GKToday).
Policies and Industry Fuel Growth
This expansion isn’t by happenstance; it’s the result of robust policy execution:
- Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat campaigns have encouraged domestic procurement, manufacturing, and innovation.
- Institutions like DRDO and initiatives like iDEX foster R&D from startups and MSMEs. As of early 2025, iDEX had engaged over 600 innovators and signed 430 contracts (ibgnews.com).
- Defence Industrial Corridors in UP and Tamil Nadu offer infrastructure, connectivity, and incentives for private and public sector firms alike (The Economic Times).
The Critical Role of On-Demand Manufacturing
Defence manufacturing demands precision, agility, and compliance. Traditional production models often struggle with long lead times, high costs, and inflexibility. Here’s where on-demand manufacturing excels:
- Rapid Prototyping & Iteration: Quickly adapt designs based on test feedback—critical in mission-driven environments.
- Scalable Production: Handle both low-volume speciality parts and fast ramp-up for urgent needs.
- Distributed Supply Networks: Mitigate risks from single-source dependencies and global disruptions.
- Consistency and Quality: Leverage vetted facilities capable of high-precision CNC machining, AM (additive manufacturing), fabrication, and finishing.
This model is increasingly being adopted by defence OEMs looking to expedite development and deployment cycles.
Mechkonnect: Your On-Demand Partner in Defence Production
At Mechkonnect, we’ve built an on-demand manufacturing platform tailored to meet the demanding needs of the defence sector:
- Extensive Network of Certified Suppliers
From precision machining to advanced composites, our network spans high-capability MSMEs and specialised job shops trained in defence-quality standards. - End-to-End Project Management
We manage everything from rapid prototyping and material sourcing to quality inspections and logistics—giving clients a single point of accountability. - Scalability on Demand
Whether it’s a niche prototype or parts for scaled-up systems, we can scale production as per program timelines. - Deep Understanding of Defence Compliance
Our partners work under rigorous quality frameworks—ISO, NADCAP (where applicable), documentation protocols, and traceability all included. - Agile Turnarounds
Shorter lead times mean faster iteration and deployment—critical in missions where every week counts.
A Strategic Imperative for India’s Manufacturing Ecosystem
India’s defence manufacturing boom delivers ripple effects far beyond direct revenues:
- Boosting MSMEs, specialized suppliers, and R&D firms across sectors.
- Encouraging Dual-Use Technologies, where innovations in defence (like advanced materials or electronics) benefit civilian industries—from aerospace to automotive.
- Strengthening Exports, positioning India as a competitive defence ecosystem alongside traditional players.As India charts its path toward ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029, on-demand manufacturing will be essential for fulfilling complex, rapidly evolving requirements efficiently (makeinindiadefence.com, IPF Online).Final Thoughts
India has made a remarkable leap—from importing defence hardware to becoming a global defence manufacturer. The combined power of policy, innovation, infrastructure, and manufacturing excellence is reshaping the sector.
In this new era, reliable partners like Mechkonnect ensure that precision, flexibility, and speed are not just goals—they are delivered. Whether you’re developing critical aerospace components or defence systems, our platform bridges design intent and deployment readiness with unmatched agility.
Let India’s defence manufacturing future be part of your mission. Mechkonnect is ready.
