India’s shipbuilding industry marked a significant milestone on November 24, 2025, with the commissioning of INS Mahe, the first Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, it features over 80% indigenous content and enhances India’s naval capabilities amid regional tensions, symbolizing the nation’s shift toward self-reliance in defense.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a significant agreement with General Electric for 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines, enhancing India’s indigenous fighter jet program. This deal supports the production of 97 Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk1A for the Indian Air Force, reinforcing defense cooperation and advancing India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
The introduction of the Buy (Indian–IDDM) category aimed to promote self-reliance in India’s defense sector. However, a decade later, urgency in procurement, spurred by mechanisms like Emergency Procurement, has diluted original intentions, favoring imports over innovation. Reforms are necessary to ensure genuine support for indigenous defense firms and maintain strategic autonomy.
The Indian Navy plans to enhance its maritime capabilities by inducting 36 new vessels by 2027, contributing to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Significant deliveries include 19 ships in 2026 and 13 in 2027, aimed at strengthening India’s operational readiness and boosting its fleet from 135 to nearly 167 warships, enhancing maritime security.
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) have formed a strategic partnership to produce Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems in India. The collaboration aims to fulfill Indian armed forces’ needs, enhance self-reliance, and significantly reduce import reliance through technology transfer and indigenous manufacturing.
