India Ranks Fifth in Military Spending, Second in Arms Imports

India remained the world’s fifth-largest military spender in 2025 with expenditure of $92.1 billion, and it ranked behind the United States, China, Russia and Germany. India was also the world’s second-largest importer of major arms during the 2021–25 period, with 8.2% of total global arms imports.

Global Military Expenditure

India’s military expenditure in 2025 rose by 8.9% from the previous year. The United States, China, Russia and Germany were the only countries with higher defence spending in 2025.

India’s Arms Import Profile

India’s arms imports declined by 4% between 2016–20 and 2021–25. SIPRI linked this fall to India’s growing capacity to design and produce weapons, while also noting delays in domestic production.

Major Suppliers to India

Russia remained India’s largest arms supplier in 2021–25, but its share fell to 40% from 51% in 2016–20 and 70% in 2011–15. France became India’s second-largest supplier with 29% of imports, and Israel supplied 15% in 2021–25.

Global Arms Transfers

The volume of major arms transferred between states increased by 9.2% between 2016–20 and 2021–25. Ukraine became the world’s largest recipient of major arms in the same period.

Important Facts for Exams

• SIPRI stands for the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, which tracks military expenditure and arms transfers.
• India accounted for 8.2% of global major arms imports during 2021–25.
• Russia’s share in India’s arms imports fell from 70% in 2011–15 to 40% in 2021–25.
• France and Israel were the second and third largest suppliers to India in 2021–25.

Defence Spending in Context

Military expenditure is commonly measured in current United States dollars and includes spending on armed forces, defence ministries and military-related activities. Major arms transfers cover weapons systems such as aircraft, missiles, naval vessels and armoured vehicles.