'Self-reliance does not mean working in isolation.' Discuss the potential of defence-industrial co-development with ASEAN partners for Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

At the first ASEAN-India Defence Think Tank Forum (October 2026), the Raksha Mantri said Aatmanirbhar Bharat invites trusted partners to co-design and co-produce. It does not mean working in isolation [1]. ASEAN sits at the centre of Act East and MAHASAGAR. Co-development with its members can therefore grow India's defence industry and strengthen regional security together.

Potential for Aatmanirbhar Bharat

• Scale and markets: Defence exports reached a record ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024-25 [2]. ASEAN needs patrol vessels, radars, air-defence systems, helicopters and drones [1].
• Proven template: The $375 million BrahMos shore-based anti-ship missile contract with the Philippines (2022) shows that Indian systems can meet ASEAN needs [3].
• Beyond sales: Co-production, MRO, training and long-term support build local skills and reliable supply chains. The aim is "lasting partnerships, not one-time transactions" [1].
• Technology: India proposed joint work on counter-drone systems, cyber defence and maritime surveillance. Linked with iDEX and TDF, this can bring in start-ups, universities and smaller firms [1].
• Strategic gain: Common platforms improve interoperability and maritime domain awareness against piracy, trafficking and illegal fishing [1].

Constraints

• Thin presence: Most Indian investment in ASEAN goes to Singapore, so Indian industry has little base elsewhere in the region [4].
• Trade imbalance: India ran a $45.20 billion trade deficit with ASEAN in 2024-25, which weakens its "equal partner" claim. The AITIGA review is still pending [4].
• After-sales credibility: Buyers want clear requirements, reliable spares, technology safeguards and IP protection [1].
• Great-power sensitivities: Smaller states that trade heavily with China may hesitate over deep defence ties.

Way forward

• Fund joint research through the existing ASEAN-India Science and Technology Development Fund [4].
• Start with India's largest ASEAN export markets (Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam) [4] and build on the Philippines model [3].
• Feed the forum's research into the ADMM-Plus Expert Working Groups [4].

Co-development with ASEAN shifts Aatmanirbharta from import substitution towards exports and partnership. If India pairs dependable after-sales support with a fairer trade relationship, ASEAN can become an industrial partner and not just a market. That serves SAGAR's goal of "Security and Growth for All in the Region" and an Indo-Pacific where all countries make their own choices [1].