The Indian Army has achieved a major milestone in defence self-reliance by indigenising 159 of its 175 ammunition variants, reaching 91 per cent self-sufficiency and sharply reducing dependence on imports amid global supply chain disruptions.
The push, led by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in partnership with defence public sector undertakings and private industry, is aimed at ensuring sustained firepower during prolonged conflict scenarios. The effort has gained added urgency as the armed forces remain at a high level of operational readiness following Operation Sindoor.
DPSUs and Private Sector Drive Aatmanirbharta
To accelerate Aatmanirbhar Bharat in military-grade ammunition, the MoD has roped in key players such as Munitions India Limited (MIL) and private manufacturers including Solar Industries India Limited. Their combined production capabilities have enabled the Army to secure reliable domestic supply chains across small-, medium-, and large-calibre ammunition.
Focus on Smart Ammunition
Of the remaining 16 ammunition variants yet to be fully indigenised, the MoD has initiated in-house production of four to seven critical types, including smart ammunition to enhance precision and battlefield effectiveness. These include the Russian-origin Armour-Piercing Fin-Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) anti-tank rounds and Swedish-designed 84 mm ammunition.
Production facilities for APFSDS ammunition—after long-pending transfer of technology (ToT) sought as early as 2015–16—are now at an advanced stage at MIL’s Pune facility. Similarly, ToT for the 84 mm ammunition has been secured, with a dedicated production plant under establishment.
Rationalisation and Economic Efficiency
In parallel, the Army and MoD have decided to club five ammunition variants under “economic order quantities”, citing limited overall demand and adequate existing reserves. Domestic production for these types will not be pursued to ensure cost efficiency and optimal utilisation of manufacturing capacity.
Preparing for Future Warfare
Defence sources emphasised that future wars will be intense and complex, requiring smart munitions capable of precise, deep strikes with minimal collateral damage. Beyond artillery, the Army is also seeking advanced ammunition solutions for combat UAVs, reflecting the growing role of unmanned systems in modern warfare.
The progress marks a significant jump from last year, when 154 of 175 variants (about 88 per cent) had been indigenised—highlighting steady momentum in ammunition self-reliance.
Emergency Procurement and Export Push
During the current year, the Army has procured ammunition worth ₹6,000 crore under Emergency Procurement-6, ensuring immediate operational preparedness. Simultaneously, the MoD is exploring ways to keep production lines viable during peacetime by expanding exports of military-grade ammunition and explosives.
India has stepped up exports to several countries, including the United States and nations in Europe, covering artillery shells, rockets, and explosives such as TNT, RDX, and HMX—strengthening India’s position as a reliable global defence supplier.
The achievement underscores India’s growing ability to sustain high-intensity operations independently, reinforcing both national security and the country’s ambition to emerge as a major defence manufacturing and export hub.
