The Department of Defence Production under the Ministry of Defence has streamlined two major export frameworks to reduce red tape and help Indian defence companies access global markets more easily. The changes to the Defence Export Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and the Open General Export Licence (OGEL) framework aim to position India as a dependable defence manufacturing partner while protecting national security interests.
What has changed
Defence Export SOP reforms: Companies no longer need stakeholder approval to export non-lethal defence items to most countries, though safeguards remain for sensitive nations. The requirement has also been dropped for exporting any items destined for international tenders and exhibitions, allowing Indian manufacturers to participate in global showcases more quickly.
OGEL framework overhaul: The OGEL is a standing authorisation that lets approved exporters generate their own export permits for multiple shipments of specified defence goods without applying each time. Key changes include:
- Three separate OGEL procedures have been merged into a single, simpler framework
- Export permits now remain valid for three years instead of two, cutting renewal frequency
- Coverage expanded from 41 countries to all nations except those designated as sensitive, under UN Security Council sanctions, or facing arms embargoes
- New option for Indian firms with long-term contracts with foreign equipment makers to obtain OGEL aligned with their contract period
- More defence items now qualify for OGEL coverage
- Civil-end-use exports of certain components for small-calibre arms and protective gear are now permitted
Defence sector production reached Rs 1.78 lakh crore and exports hit Rs 38,424 crore in the 2025-26 financial year.
What this means for you
If you work in or run an Indian defence manufacturing company, these changes mean you can respond to international orders and bidding opportunities faster without repeatedly requesting government approval. Small and medium enterprises stand to gain particularly because they can now access more overseas markets and reduce time spent on compliance paperwork. However, exports to sensitive countries and banned nations remain restricted to protect India’s security interests.