Reliance Defence, a private Indian defence manufacturer based in Maharashtra, secured a ₹600 crore export order from Germany’s Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH on June 25, 2025. The deal marks one of the largest in high-tech ammunition exports and strengthens India’s defence manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
In a major boost to India’s private defence manufacturing capabilities, Reliance Defence, part of the Reliance Group led by Anil Ambani, announced on June 25 that it has secured an export order worth ₹600 crore from Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH, a leading German defence and ammunition company.
The order, one of the largest in India’s high-tech ammunition export space, is set to significantly enhance Reliance Defence’s presence in the global defence supply chain, particularly in Europe.
According to the company, this partnership aligns with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives by promoting indigenous capabilities in defence production.
This strategic partnership illustrates our strong commitment to partner with India under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.”
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG
Defining Moment for Private Sector
Anil Ambani, Founder Chairman of Reliance Group, called the deal a defining milestone that brings cutting-edge defence manufacturing capabilities to India and advances the country’s private-sector role in defence.
As part of the project, Reliance Defence will establish a new integrated facility for the production of ammunition, explosives, and small arms under its Dhirubhai Ambani Defence City (DADC) initiative.
DADC: India’s Largest Private Defence Project
The DADC is being developed in the Watad industrial area in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, and is set to become the largest greenfield project ever undertaken by any private company in India’s defence sector.
It will serve as a hub for advanced production, innovation, and export-oriented growth, laying the foundation for India’s ambition to become a top global defence exporter.
Reliance Defence stated its goal is to be among the top three defence exporters in the country.
With this agreement, Germany’s Rheinmetall, known for its advanced munitions systems, reinforces its strategic commitment to Indian defence manufacturing through long-term cooperation.
This deal also signals India’s expanding role in the global arms and ammunition export market and highlights the growing interest of global defence giants in collaborating with Indian private firms.
