India’s arms imports declined by 33% between 2011-15 and 2016-20: SIPRI

According to a report by the Swedish think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Arms imports declined by 33% between 2011–15 and 2016–20, while India remains the second largest arms importer after Saudi Arabia.

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“The overall decline in arms imports between 2011–15 and 2016–20, combined with efforts to reduce Russian arms dependence by diversifying our network of arms suppliers, is primarily due to its complex and lengthy procurement processes.” Appears to be in form. ” Released on Monday.

The report stated that Russia was the largest supplier of arms in both years. “However, Russia’s delivery fell by 53% between the two periods and its share in Indian arms imports fell from 70 to 49%.”

The US was India’s second largest arms supplier in 2011–15, but India’s arms imports from the US in 2016–20 were down 46% compared to the previous five-years, the fourth-largest supplier to the US in 2016–17 .

France and Israel were the second and third largest arms suppliers in 2016–20. The report said that India’s arms imports from France increased by 709%, while that of Israel increased by 82%.

The report states that India acknowledges the growing threats from Pakistan and China and has long delayed ambitious plans to produce its major weapons, it plans large-scale programs for arms imports. “India’s arms imports are expected to increase in the coming five years, based on outstanding deliveries of fighter aircraft, air defense systems, ships and submarines,” he said.

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Between 2011-15 and 2014-2020, Pakistan’s arms imports declined by 23%. China imported 61% of its imports in 2011–15 and 74% in 2016–20.

According to the report, like India, Pakistan also has many large arms orders. The report states that they are scheduled for delivery by 2028 and include 50 combat aircraft, eight submarines and four frigates from China and four frigates.

As part of efforts to boost defense imports and boost domestic manufacturing, the Defense Ministry last year notified a list of 101 items on the negative import list. A second negative list with more items is expected to be released later this year. In addition, the Ministry has reserved a portion of the capital budget for procurement from domestic industry.