India Showcases Military Prowess to African Nations in Major Arms Export Push

"India has become one of the main exporters of defense equipment in recent years. A defense manufacturing ecosystem has been created here, which has the advantage of an abundant technical workforce. The Indian defense industry can work with you to meet your defense needs," said the Indian Defense Minister at this meeting.

"The visiting delegations are witnessing demonstrations of available systems such as artillery guns, armored vehicles, radars, simulators and ammunition, as part of a strong advocacy for India as an arms exporting country," reports the Indian newspaper The Economic Times, stressing that India wants to export arms to African countries with limited means to acquire defense equipment from Western countries.

During the event, "a display of defense equipment and interaction with Indian defense industries were organized for the army chiefs and representatives of African nations in Pune. The exhibition provided an overview of the technological capabilities and prowess of the Nation," the Indian army said in a tweet.

According to some observers, the import of Indian-origin weapons by African countries remains limited. Only 10 to 15% of India’s annual defense exports are destined for African countries such as Mozambique, Egypt, Ethiopia, the Seychelles... for revenues of $1.7 billion. India aims to increase these revenues to $5 billion in the coming years.