In a significant shift toward enhancing defense exports and promoting indigenous manufacturing, India’s Ministry of Defence is exploring the leasing of domestically developed weapons systems, including the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet and various helicopters, to foreign nations. This initiative aims to address concerns of potential buyers hesitant about outright purchases, providing flexible leasing models that could lead to a sustainable revenue stream and strengthen diplomatic ties. With defense exports rising sharply, this leasing strategy diversifies revenue sources and stimulates domestic production, while positioning India as a reliable partner in the Global South. The proposal, still in the exploratory phase, reflects India’s growing role as a seller in the global arms market, potentially transforming its defense industry landscape by attracting smaller nations seeking advanced military technology without significant upfront costs.