India has achieved a significant position as the world’s third-largest defense power, according to the Lowy Institute’s ‘Asia Power Index 2025.’ This ranking reflects enhanced military capabilities, strategic assertiveness, and a growing emphasis on self-reliance in its defense sector. India is now recognized as a “major power” in Asia, surpassing 40 points in its comprehensive power score for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in its journey to becoming a global strategic player.
India Third Largest Defense Power: Lowy Institute’s Asia Power Index 2025 Analysis
The ‘Asia Power Index 2025’ details India’s ascent, highlighting consistent improvement in military capability. This is attributed to enhanced expert appraisals of its strategic readiness and combat experience gained during “Operation Sindoor” in May 2025. The report also notes India’s record defense production and exports, with over 65% of defense equipment now domestically manufactured, reducing import dependence and bolstering strategic autonomy.
Operation Sindoor: A Catalyst for India’s Defence Power
“Operation Sindoor,” launched in May 2025, involved Indian missile and air strikes on alleged militant camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This operation was a direct response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in April 2025, which killed 26 tourists. Operation Sindoor reportedly targeted and dismantled Pakistan’s air defense systems, demonstrating India’s strategic readiness and self-reliance. The operation showcased the capabilities of India’s arsenal, including Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, which struck nine specific locations. This period also marked the first recorded drone battle between India and Pakistan.
Addressing India’s Defence Power Gap
Despite advancements, the Lowy Institute’s report identifies “defense networks” as an area for improvement, with India ranking 11th globally, a decline of two ranks. This indicates a need for greater diplomatic and strategic outreach in defense partnerships. The report highlights a “Power Gap” for India, a divergence between its potential and actual power, suggesting that its diplomatic influence and defense networks have not grown commensurately with its economic and military capabilities. Bridging this gap requires continued investment in military hardware and indigenous production, alongside efforts to expand defense alliances and strategic collaborations.
In conclusion, India’s rise as the world’s third-largest defense power is a result of its strategic vision, growing military might, and focus on indigenous defense capabilities. While Operation Sindoor provided crucial combat experience, India must now strengthen its defense networks and diplomatic influence to fully realize its potential as a comprehensive global power.
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