• The imports of weapons and military equipment by India declined by 33 percent during 2016-2020, as per the annual report titled “Trends in International Arms Transfers-2020”, released by Sweden-based think-tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) 
• However, despite a cut in import rates, India continues to be the second largest importer in the world during 2016-2020.

Key facts

• India’s import accounted for 9.5 percent of all arms sales during 2016-2020, compared to 14 percent in the previous five year block (2011-2015).
• The decline in India’s arms imports was mainly due to its complex and lengthy procurement processes, combined with its attempts to reduce its dependence on Russian arms.
• During 2016-2020, the overall Indian imports comprised 49 percent from Russia, making it the biggest supplier. This was followed by France and Israel with 18 and 13 percent, respectively.

Largest Importers

• The five largest arms importers in 2016-20 were Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, Australia and China. 

Largest Exporters

• The five largest arms exporters in 2016–20 were the United States, Russia, France, Germany and China. India ranked at 24th position among arms exporter.