India’s defence import profile is undergoing a structural shift, with the United States emerging as a key supplier, particularly in high-technology segments such as aircraft engines, missiles and advanced sensors. While Russia remains India’s largest arms supplier, its dominance has declined sharply over the past decade, even as US defence exports to India gain momentum—reinforced by strategic agreements and the expanding India-US trade partnership.

What the Data Shows

A Moneycontrol analysis highlights how India’s defence sourcing has diversified over time. Between 2007 and 2012, Russia accounted for nearly 80% of India’s defence imports, while the US had a marginal presence at under 3%. This balance has shifted significantly since then.

By 2013–2018, the US share rose to nearly 15%, and although it moderated slightly in 2019–2024, American suppliers still accounted for around 13% of India’s defence imports. During the same period, Russia’s share fell sharply to 36%, while France emerged as a major supplier, driven largely by Rafale fighter jet deliveries.

High-Tech Categories Drive the US Tilt

The shift becomes more pronounced when defence imports are examined by category. In aircraft imports, the US share jumped from less than 4% (2007–2012) to nearly 23% (2019–2024). In engines, American suppliers now account for over 25% of India’s imports, more than double their share in the late 2000s.

US firms have also strengthened their position in missiles and advanced sensors, areas where access to cutting-edge technology and interoperability with partner forces often outweigh cost considerations.

Strategic and Political Factors at Play

This realignment has been shaped by both strategic and political drivers. During the first term of Donald Trump, former President of the United States, Washington actively pushed defence exports, with India emerging as a major beneficiary. In April 2019, the US cleared the sale of 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters worth about $2.6 billion, followed by approval in February 2020 for the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System, estimated at $1.9 billion.

Equally important were the signing of key foundational agreements—COMCASA and BECA—which enhanced interoperability and intelligence sharing between the two countries. India was also granted Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status, allowing access to sensitive technologies previously reserved for close US allies.

Trade Deal Adds Fresh Momentum

The recently announced India-US trade deal, with a $500 billion trade and investment commitment, is expected to further open India’s market to American goods. Defence imports are likely to be one of the most consequential channels through which this deeper trade relationship plays out.

Key Entities

Government of India — Defence procurement authority
United States Government — Defence exporter and strategic partner
Donald Trump — Former President of the United States
Russian Federation — Traditional defence supplier to India
France — Major defence supplier (Rafale aircraft)
Indian Armed Forces — End users of imported defence systems

Final Verdict

India’s growing tilt towards US defence imports does not signal an outright replacement of traditional suppliers, but rather a strategic diversification focused on high-technology and interoperability. As India-US trade ties deepen, defence imports are set to remain a critical lever—reshaping procurement priorities while aligning India’s military capabilities with its evolving geopolitical and economic partnerships.