Defence Budget 2026: New Fighter Jets, Warships, and Special Vehicles Approved

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Ganpat Singh Chouhan

Defence Budget 2026: New Fighter Jets, Warships, and Special Vehicles Approved

New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget today, allocating ₹2.19 lakh crore for the capital expenditure of the armed forces. This marks a significant increase of about 24 percent from last year’s allocation of ₹1.80 lakh crore.

The allocated funds will be utilised to procure new fighter aircraft, modern weapons, warships, submarines, drones, UAVs, and specialised military vehicles for the Indian armed forces.

The Ministry of Defence has emphasised that given the current global scenario, modernisation of the military is essential. The government has also decided to promote the indigenous defence industry by earmarking ₹1.39 lakh crore—approximately 75 percent of the total capital acquisition budget—for procurement from domestic manufacturers, including private companies. This move aims to boost self-reliance in defence, create new employment opportunities, and support several ancillary industries.

Overall, the defence sector has been allocated ₹7.85 lakh crore in the budget, which is 14.68 percent of the total central government budget—the highest share for any ministry so far. Last year, the defence budget stood at ₹6.81 lakh crore. The focus this year is on military modernisation, which the Ministry of Defence states will strengthen the country’s defence preparedness, encourage innovation, and enhance national security.

Alongside capital expenditure, ₹3.65 lakh crore has been set aside under the revenue head. Of this, ₹1.58 lakh crore will be spent on operational preparedness and maintenance, including procurement of essential spares, ammunition, and equipment.

Funding for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has also increased to ₹29,100 crore. This will accelerate research, new technologies, and the development of advanced defence systems.

The budget allocation for the Defence Ministry is seen as a decisive step towards a technologically advanced and self-reliant India, aligned with the vision of Developed India 2047. It focuses on modernisation, technological innovation, efficient resource utilisation, and streamlining defence procurement processes.

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