India's defense industry has undergone significant transformation over the past decade, with a push for self-reliance and increased exports. The government has encouraged private sector participation in defense manufacturing, leading to partnerships with foreign firms. Among these, the Adani Group has emerged as a key player, particularly in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles. The Adani-Elbit joint venture is a prime example of how Indian companies are collaborating with international defense firms to expand their market reach. The export of over 20 Hermes 900 drones to Israel not only showcases technological capabilities but also highlights the geopolitical implications of such transactions.
Munitions India Ltd, established in 2021, is a public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Defence, focusing on producing a comprehensive range of ammunition and explosives for the Indian armed forces. With 12 manufacturing units across the country, MIL aims to provide modern battlefield ammunition to enhance the operational capabilities of the military. Recent records indicate that MIL received approval to ship products to Israel as recently as January 2024, with a repeat order applied for in April. This consistent engagement with Israel raises questions about the nature of the products being exported and their potential use in ongoing conflicts.
The licensing process for arms exports from India involves stringent checks, including End-User Certifications that stipulate the intended use of the exported items. However, the recent licensing granted to MIL by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade for dual-use items has raised eyebrows. Dual-use items are those that can serve both military and civilian purposes, such as explosives used in construction and mining. This classification allows for more lenient export regulations, leading to concerns about the potential misuse of these items in conflict zones, particularly in light of Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Another significant player in India's arms export landscape is Premier Explosives Ltd, which has been exporting explosives and allied accessories to Israel under DGFT licenses since 2021. PEL's product range includes various types of explosives, detonators, and solid propellants for missiles. The company has continued to receive export approvals even amid escalating tensions in the region, prompting scrutiny regarding the ethical implications of such transactions. When contacted for details, PEL emphasized the sensitivity of the information, citing competitive pressures in the industry.
The international community, including bodies like the International Court of Justice, has underscored the responsibilities of nations regarding arms exports to conflict zones. The ICJ has highlighted the importance of adhering to international obligations to prevent the misuse of arms, particularly in light of allegations of genocide and war crimes. As a party to various international treaties, India faces scrutiny regarding its arms trade practices, especially concerning exports to Israel. The timing of export approvals, particularly during periods of heightened conflict, raises ethical questions about accountability and the potential complicity of the Indian government in ongoing human rights violations.
India's arms export regulatory frameworks, including the Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies list, are designed to ensure that exports align with national security and foreign policy objectives. However, the lack of transparency in the approval process and the classification of items as dual-use complicate the narrative. The Inter-Ministerial Working Group evaluates applications based on criteria such as the credibility of the end-user and the potential for misuse. Given the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the relevance of these criteria becomes particularly crucial in assessing the appropriateness of exports to Israel.
As India continues to expand its arms export capabilities, the actions of firms like Adani, MIL, and PEL will remain under close observation. The ethical implications of exporting military equipment to nations accused of human rights violations cannot be overlooked. The ongoing situation raises important questions about India's role in the global arms trade and its commitment to upholding international law and human rights standards. The balance between economic growth in the defense sector and ethical considerations will be a critical challenge for the Indian government moving forward.
