From Import Dependence to Indigenous Firepower
For decades, India remained one of the world’s largest arms importers. That narrative is fast changing. The Ministry of Defence’s latest figures reveal that private sector contribution to total defence production has jumped to nearly 20%, while defence exports have grown 10X in the last ten years.
Driving this transformation are policy enablers:
- 100% FDI allowed through automatic route in select segments
- Two dedicated Defence Industrial Corridors (Uttar Pradesh & Tamil Nadu)
- Increased budgetary allocation for domestic capital procurement
In the heart of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPEIDA), VTDS is setting up a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility focused exclusively on small arms, ammunition, and related defence systems – an area where India still imports over 60% of its requirements.
The Visionaries Behind VTDS: Sahil and Prikansha Luthra
At the helm are two young leaders who represent the changing face of Indian defence entrepreneurship.
Sahil Luthra, Founder & Managing Director, brings a singular focus: “National security cannot depend on foreign supply chains that can be switched off during conflict.” His mission is to build sovereign capability in small arms and ammunition – critical consumables in modern warfare.
Prikansha Luthra, Co-Founder & Director, is breaking barriers as one of the few women leading operations and financial strategy in India’s core defence manufacturing space. With a background in journalism and business, she ensures that ambitious technological goals are backed by sustainable financial planning and operational excellence.
“Defence manufacturing is not just industry; it is a national responsibility that demands discipline, foresight, and unwavering intent,” says Sahil Luthra.
“Women have always contributed to nation-building. What’s changing is that strategic sectors like defence are finally creating visible pathways,” adds Prikansha Luthra.
Why Small Arms & Ammunition Matter More Than Ever
While headlines often focus on fighter jets and missiles, small arms and ammunition form the backbone of infantry capability and internal security operations. The Russia-Ukraine conflict dramatically exposed the danger of ammunition shortages – some estimates suggest armies fire up to 1 million rounds per month in high-intensity warfare.
India’s push to become self-reliant in this segment is therefore strategic. Companies like VTDS are positioning themselves to meet not just Indian Armed Forces requirements but also growing export demand from friendly nations.
The Road Ahead for Indian Defence Startups
VTDS is part of a larger wave that includes companies like SSS Defence, PLR Systems, SMPP, and Tonbo Imaging. Together, they are:
- Developing fully indigenous designs benchmarked to NATO standards
- Partnering with global leaders for technology transfer (where required)
- Creating thousands of high-skill jobs in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities
As India targets ₹1.75 lakh crore defence production and ₹35,000 crore exports by 2029, private players like VTDS will play a pivotal role.
With young, diverse leadership and an uncompromising focus on sovereignty, Vijayan Trishul Defence Solutions is not just manufacturing weapons – it is manufacturing India’s strategic future.
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