The government has approached several private firms involved in defence equipment production. These include Bharat Forge and Mahindra & Mahindra’s defence division. Officials have issued specific directions to these private vendors. They instructed them to increase supplies of certain ammunition. This includes anti-drone and smart ammunition. They also directed an increase in equipment like armoured vehicles. These vehicles must support integration with different weapon systems such as loitering munitions and guided missiles.

Authorities asked these firms to ramp up output of some items beyond what ordnance factories are already producing. Sources in the industry said officials are likely to summon these vendors for a follow-up meeting soon.

Bharat Forge runs a major defence manufacturing facility in Jejuri, near Pune. This facility focuses on the assembly and integration of guns, vehicles, small and medium arms, and systems. Earlier this year, Bharat Forge signed a landmark deal with the Ministry of Defence. The agreement involves supplying 184 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS), developed indigenously. Bharat Forge co-developed the 155/52 mm calibre ATAGS with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The ATAGS can fire projectiles up to 48 kilometres. It uses an all-electric drive system. This makes it easier to maintain than traditional hydraulic systems. The gun moves at a speed of 18 kmph. Towed guns typically move at about 8 kmph. The ATAGS can fire six shells in a round. Towed guns usually fire three. It can use existing ammunition without any special modification.

Mahindra has obtained a government licence to manufacture small arms and associated ammunition. It also specialises in building armoured carriers and non-armoured mobility vehicles for the Indian Army. Mahindra manufactures the Marksman, a military vehicle designed for urban combat. It also produces the Rakshak, an armoured utility vehicle for military use.

Earlier, the Indian Army issued a request for information to vendors. They sought manufacturers for 23mm anti-drone ammunition. This initiative falls under the “Make in India” program. The Directorate General of Army Air Defence oversees the project.

India’s defence production has grown sharply under “Make in India.” It reached a record ₹1.27 lakh crore in FY24. Now, about 65 per cent of India’s defence equipment is manufactured domestically. A decade ago, India depended on imports for about 65 to 70 per cent of its defence needs.

Private companies such as Bharat Forge, Mahindra, and the Tata Group now play a major role. They contributed 21 per cent of India’s total defence production in FY24. They also help drive innovation and efficiency in the sector.

India’s defence industrial base includes 16 public sector units. It also includes over 430 licensed private firms. Roughly 16,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) support this industry.