India is eyeing defence export opportunities to Southeast Asia In 2024, India’s defence exports reached a historic milestone, surpassing INR 210 billion (USD 2.42 billion) for the first time, marking a 32.5 percent growth over the previous year. This growth...
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India is eyeing defence export opportunities to Southeast Asia
In 2024, India’s defence exports reached a historic milestone, surpassing INR 210 billion (USD 2.42 billion) for the first time, marking a 32.5 percent growth over the previous year. This growth is part of New Delhi’s broader ambition to reduce reliance on foreign arms suppliers and boost domestic defence production. India’s defence exports span a wide range of equipment, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, artillery guns, radars, and more specialized systems such as night-vision gear and offshore patrol vessels. In particular, countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia have shown interest in India’s defence products, offering promising opportunities for further growth.
The Philippines has been a key partner in recent years. India has supplied the country with advanced weapons, including the BrahMos missile system, marking a significant milestone in Indo-Philippine defence relations. The Philippines’ increasing interest in India’s missile systems reflects its need for precision-strike capabilities to counter regional threats, particularly in the context of its ongoing maritime dispute with China. Given the Philippines' strategic position in Southeast Asia, its demand for reliable, cost-effective, and high-performance defence equipment aligns well with India’s export offerings, such as coastal surveillance radars and offshore patrol vessels, both of which would enhance its maritime security amid rising tensions in the region.
Vietnam, too, is looking to enhance its defence capabilities with Indian assistance. Reports indicate that Vietnam is seeking to purchase the BrahMos missile system, with a focus on increasing its air and coastal defence. Given Vietnam’s proximity to China and its ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, the need for sophisticated, high-quality defence systems is pressing. India’s export of BrahMos missiles to Vietnam, along with other items such as surveillance systems and armoured vehicles, could play a key role in strengthening Vietnam’s deterrence capabilities. Moreover, India’s ability to supply a range of defensive technologies, from missile systems to lightweight torpedoes, aligns well with Vietnam’s defence priorities.
Similarly, Malaysia, with its strategic maritime interests, presents another avenue for India to expand its defence exports. Malaysia has long relied on external suppliers for its military hardware, but recent shifts in geopolitical dynamics have led it to explore new sources. India’s experience with a diverse range of defence systems, from radars and surveillance equipment to advanced missiles, makes it a strong contender for meeting Malaysia's defence needs. Furthermore, Malaysia’s push for maritime security and border defence dovetails well with India’s growing expertise in providing naval equipment, such as patrol vessels and advanced radar systems, which would contribute to Malaysia’s growing defence infrastructure.
Thailand, on the other hand, presents a more complex challenge. While the country has a well-established local defence industry, particularly in the production of armoured vehicles, and has sourced advanced platforms from China, it still holds potential for India’s export ambitions. Despite the competition from China, India’s offerings in areas such as surveillance systems, artillery, and coastal defence radars could appeal to Thailand, especially as the country continues to modernise its armed forces. Moreover, like Singapore, Thailand’s focus on defence electronics, surveillance, and air defence systems provides India with opportunities to offer its advanced technologies in these domains. India’s experience in producing high-quality surveillance systems and radars could find a receptive market in Thailand, particularly as the country seeks to strengthen its maritime security.
Singapore, known for its advanced and tech-savvy military, shares several similarities with Thailand in terms of defence needs. Both countries prioritize modernisation, particularly in terms of surveillance and defence electronics, and both have sought partnerships with leading global defence manufacturers. India’s strong track record in the production of cutting-edge surveillance systems, radars, and missiles positions it as a competitive player in meeting Singapore’s needs. While Singapore’s smaller size and advanced technological infrastructure might limit its overall demand for large-scale defence platforms, its focus on high-tech, integrated systems presents opportunities for India to offer advanced defence electronics and software, aligning with Singapore’s defence priorities.
The growing demand for Indian defence exports is not just about providing equipment, but also about building long-term partnerships. India’s focus on increasing the quality and reliability of its products, backed by strong after-sales service and training packages, is key to winning over markets in Southeast Asia. While India’s defence exports are still growing, the country has already made significant inroads into markets traditionally dominated by larger powers, such as the US, Russia, and China. By offering cost-effective solutions tailored to the specific needs of countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore, India can carve out a niche in Southeast Asia’s diverse and competitive defence market.
As India looks to expand its defence exports, it must focus on building strong relationships with countries that have long-term defence needs and the financial resources to meet them. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore represent promising markets for India’s diverse range of defence products. While Thailand presents a more competitive environment due to its local industry and reliance on Chinese platforms, India still has opportunities in areas such as surveillance, artillery, and coastal defence. By tailoring its offerings to the unique requirements of these countries, India can strengthen its position as a key supplier in the Southeast Asian defence sector, contributing to regional stability and security.
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