SIPRI says India remains the world’s second-largest arms importer with 8.3% share in 2021-25

Direct fact

According to the latest SIPRI report in March 2026, India remained the world’s second-largest arms importer, with an 8.3% share of global imports during 2021-2025.

Key specifics

• Ukraine ranked first with a 9.7% share of global arms imports.
• Pakistan rose to the 5th position with a 4.2% share.
• India’s arms imports declined by 4% compared with the 2016-2020 period.
• Russia’s share in India’s imports fell from 70% in 2011-15 to 40% in 2021-25.
• India still depends on France for combat aircraft and Germany for submarines.

Exam lens

Defence and international current affairs, SIPRI ranking, 8.3% share, Ukraine at 9.7%, and Russia’s reduced share are the key facts; TNPSC may frame questions on top importers and supplier diversification.