Why India is sharing missile secrets with its private sector

What the report says

India has moved to open the production of conventional missile systems to private companies, in a policy shift announced by the Ministry of Defence and reported by Al Jazeera on 26 August 2026. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the transfer of technologies developed by the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) so Indian firms can manufacture those systems domestically, subject to technical and regulatory requirements.

According to the ministry, the goal is to expand local manufacturing, speed the transition from development to mass production, strengthen the defence industrial base and create more space for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in the supply chain. The change reduces the long-standing role of government-owned producers, particularly in missile production, and allows private companies to compete for technology and production rights.

Al Jazeera said the decision covers a broad range of conventional missiles, including surface-to-air, air-to-air and anti-radiation systems, as well as anti-tank weapons and some cruise missiles. Analysts quoted by the outlet described the move as a major change tied to India’s wider push for military self-reliance under its Atmanirbhar Bharat policy.

The report framed the shift in the context of rising defence spending, tensions with Pakistan and China, and lessons drawn from recent conflicts. It also noted that India’s private defence sector has already expanded in drones, electronics and other military equipment, but building missiles at scale will depend on government orders, industrial capacity and sustained investment.