SOURCE: AFI
In a significant development, Armenia has surpassed other nations to become India’s largest arms importer, according to a recent survey conducted by the Finance Ministry. The surge in arms purchases is primarily attributed to the supply of advanced weapon systems like the Pinaka rocket launcher and indigenously developed Akash missiles.
Data from the Ministry of Defence reveals that Armenia’s total arms imports from India have reached a substantial $600 million by the beginning of the current fiscal year, 2024-25. This substantial increase underscores the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
The Pinaka, a multi-barrel rocket launcher system, and the Akash, a medium-range surface-to-air missile system, have proven to be highly effective weapons platforms. Armenia’s acquisition of these systems is seen as a crucial step in bolstering its defense capabilities.
India’s emergence as a significant arms exporter has been a strategic focus in recent years. The government has been actively promoting the ‘Make in India’ initiative to boost domestic defense production and reduce reliance on imports. The growing demand for Indian-made weapons systems reflects the confidence of the global market in the country’s defense industry.