As India sharpens its focus on becoming a major global defence exporter, the country’s newly elevated strategic partnership with Cypruscould open fresh opportunities for Indian military equipment manufacturers in the European region. During talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulidesin New Delhi on Friday, the two countries unveiled a five-year defence cooperation roadmap for 2026–2031 and agreed to deepen collaboration in security, maritime affairs and cyber security, according to a report by The Indian Express.
According to senior Cypriot officials, Cyprus has expressed interest in procuring military hardware from India, including drones and missile systems that were “tested” during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan last year. The development signals a potential breakthrough for India’s defence export ambitions, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean region, where New Delhi has been seeking a larger strategic footprint, the report mentioned.
Six agreements signed across key sectors
The two countries signed six agreements during the visit, including an MoU to establish a joint working group on counter-terrorism and another on Search and Rescue (SAR) coordination. The agreements also covered diplomatic training, innovation and technology, higher education and cultural cooperation, as per the report.
ALSO READUPI to go live in Cyprus next year; Key takeaways from PM Modi’s meet with Nikos Christodoulides
The defence push also aligns with India’s broader strategic objective of integrating security cooperation with trade and connectivity initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. As New Delhi looks to strengthen its presence across Europe and the Mediterranean, defence exports are increasingly becoming a key pillar of its foreign policy and economic strategy.
India’s defence exports in numbers
India’s defence exports have risen sharply in recent years, driven by the government’s push for self-reliance and increased domestic production. In FY 2024-25, exports touched an all-time high of about Rs 23,622 crore or roughly $2.76 billion.
India now exports to over 100 nations, including the United States, France and Armenia. The buyer base also includes the Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Israel, Germany, Belgium and several African countries.
ALSO READUS ‘wants to sell India as much energy as they can buy,’ says Rubio, eyes Venezuelan oil
The US mainly imports smaller items such as body armour, helmets and other components, while Armenia has bought more advanced systems, including BrahMos missiles, Pinaka rockets and the Akash air defence system.
A Reuters report said India’s defence exports rose to more than $4.1 billion in FY 2025-26, up over 60% from the previous year. The government has also said the number of Indian defence exporters has risen.
</p> |
