Indian Army Achieves 91% Indigenisation of Ammunition, Reduces Import Reliance
The Indian Army has marked a significant advancement in achieving self-reliance in defense by indigenizing 159 out of 175 ammunition variants. This achievement translates to 91 percent self-sufficiency, significantly reducing reliance on imports amidst global supply chain disruptions.
This initiative, driven by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in collaboration with defense public sector undertakings and private industries, aims to ensure continuous firepower during extended conflict situations. The effort has gained added importance as the armed forces maintain heightened operational readiness following Operation Sindoor.
DPSUs and Private Sector Drive Aatmanirbharta
To expedite the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in military-grade ammunition, the MoD has enlisted the expertise of key players like Munitions India Limited (MIL) and private manufacturers such as Solar Industries India Limited. Their collective production strength has enabled the Army to establish dependable domestic supply chains for small-, medium-, and large-caliber ammunition.
Focus on Smart Ammunition
Of the 16 ammunition variants still pending full indigenization, the MoD has commenced in-house production for four to seven critical types, including smart ammunition aimed at boosting precision and battlefield effectiveness. This includes the Russian-origin Armour-Piercing Fin-Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) anti-tank rounds and Swedish-designed 84 mm ammunition.
Production facilities for APFSDS ammunition, following a long-delayed transfer of technology (ToT) sought since 2015-16, are now in advanced stages at MIL’s Pune facility. Similarly, the ToT for the 84 mm ammunition has been secured, and a dedicated production plant is being established.
Rationalisation and Economic Efficiency
Simultaneously, the Army and MoD have opted to consolidate five ammunition variants under “economic order quantities,” due to limited overall demand and sufficient existing reserves. This decision is intended to ensure cost efficiency and optimal use of manufacturing capacity by not pursuing domestic production for these types.
Preparing for Future Warfare
Defense sources highlight that future conflicts will be intense and complex, necessitating smart munitions capable of precise, deep strikes with minimal collateral damage. Beyond artillery, the Army is exploring advanced ammunition solutions for combat UAVs, indicating the increasing role of unmanned systems in contemporary warfare.
This progress represents a significant improvement from the previous year when 154 out of 175 variants, or approximately 88 percent, had been indigenized—showcasing consistent momentum in ammunition self-reliance.
Emergency Procurement and Export Push
This year, the Army procured ammunition worth ₹6,000 crore under Emergency Procurement-6, ensuring immediate operational readiness. Concurrently, the MoD is investigating ways to sustain production lines during peacetime through the expansion of military-grade ammunition and explosives exports.
India has increased exports to various countries, including the United States and European nations, of artillery shells, rockets, and explosives like TNT, RDX, and HMX—solidifying India’s status as a dependable global defense supplier.
This accomplishment highlights India’s burgeoning capacity to independently sustain high-intensity operations, bolstering national security and the nation's ambition to become a significant defense manufacturing and export hub.
