As per the report of ‘Conventional Arms Transfers to Developing Nations 2008-2015′ released by Congressional Research Service (CRS), India has emerged as the second largest purchaser of arms among developing nations after Saudi Arabia.
- According to the report, between 2008 and 2015, India purchased defence equipment worth $34 billion while in the same period, Saudi Arabia’s purchase was worth $93.5 billion.
- The report highlights the recent Indian efforts to diversify its procurement of arms, of which the US has been a major beneficiary. India is planning for continuous modernisation plan for its defence forces.
Findings of the report
India which is principal arms customer of Russian, in recent years has sought to diversify its weapons supplier base.
- In 2004, India purchased the Phalcon early warning defense system aircraft in from Israel.
- Besides, it also purchased six Scorpene diesel attack submarines along with numerous other things from France in 2005.
- In 2008, India purchased six C130J cargo aircraft from the United States
- In 2010, the UK sold India 57 Hawk jet trainers for $1 billion.
- In 2010, Italy also sold India 12 AW101 helicopters.
- In 2011, France secured a $2.4 billion contract with India to upgrade 51 of its Mirage-2000 combat fighters.
- In 2011, US agreed to sell India 10 C-17 Globemaster III aircraft for $4.1 billion
- In 2015, Russia to a contract to provide at least 200 Ka-226T helicopter to India. During the mid-1990s, Russia sold major combat fighter aircraft and main battle tanks to India, and has provided other major weapon systems through lease or licensed production.
- The report stated that the diversification of Indian arms purchases indicates that Russia will likely face strong new competition from other major weapons suppliers for the India arms market, and it can no longer be assured that India will consistently purchase its major combat systems. India in 2011 had eliminated Russia from the international competition to supply a new-generation combat fighter aircraft, a competition won by France.
About Congressional Research Service
The Congressional Research Service (CRS), known as Congress’s think tank, is a public policy research arm of the United States Congress. As a legislative branch agency within the Library of Congress, CRS works primarily and directly for Members of Congress, their Committees and staff on a confidential, nonpartisan basis.
Objective of CRS
It prepares reports on a wide range of issues for lawmakers to make informed decisions.CRS offers Congress research and analysis on all current and emerging issues of national policy.
- CRS offers timely and confidential assistance to ensure that Members of the House and Senate have available the best possible information and analysis on which to base the policy decisions.
- Formed: July 16, 1914
- Headquarters: Washington, D.C., U.S.
- Director: Mary B. Mazanec