Ethics of Arms Sales: GS 4 2026

12. Ajit has been recently promoted as the Head of the Department of Weapon Sales (DWS) in the Ministry of Defence Production (MDP). His charter of duties includes international sales of weapons produced domestically by MDP.  

In two recent wars, MDP weapons have performed admirably, resulting in many countries showing interest in buying them, particularly long-range artillery and missiles. Country A and Country B have asked for these weapons. However, production constraints restrict DWS to accept only one purchase order. Country A is a developing nation with a sound technology base. MDP is planning R&D collaboration with it for the next generation of weapons. It is not part of any security alliance and needs weapons for protection from a troublesome neighbour. 

It seeks a large acquisition on a long-term loan. Country B is also a developing nation. Military strength is its priority, with the military budget often increasing at the expense of allocations for human resources and infrastructure development. It is in security alliance with a superpower who has a large military base there and periodically allots it financial grants. It is a member of an economic bloc with which the government is currently negotiating a free trade agreement. It is not a signatory of NPT but possesses smaller nuclear weapons and delivery systems. It supports some guerrilla forces abroad. It has sought a smaller acquisition and is prepared to make some advance payment. It is currently negotiating arms purchases from another nation too.  

Ajit discussed this case with his counterparts in the related departments. Therein the significant economic benefits, employment generation and stronger diplomatic relations arising from this sale were highlighted. It was also emphasized that refusing the deal could result in Country B purchasing weapons from some other supplier.  Ajit was aware that in arms sales, due diligence at each stage was pivotal to ensure conformity to national policy and international treaties.

(a) Discuss the options available to Ajit. Which option should he select and why?

(b) How can Ajit balance nation’s economic and strategic interests with ethical considerations? (Answer in 250 words)

Introduction

Ajit faces a difficult choice between economic and strategic gains from defence exports and the responsibility to ensure that Indian weapons do not contribute to unnecessary conflict or instability. The decision should therefore protect national interests while respecting ethical and international obligations.

(a) Options Available

Option 1 – Sell to Country B:
This would bring immediate revenue, employment and stronger economic relations, especially when an FTA is being negotiated. However, Country B’s nuclear capability, support to guerrilla groups and growing military expenditure raise concerns about proliferation, diversion and regional instability.

Option 2 – Sell to Country A — Recommended:
Country A has a stated need for defence against a troublesome neighbour, possesses a sound technological base and offers opportunities for long-term defence R&D cooperation. This could also strengthen India’s defence-industrial capabilities and generate employment. However, its proposed long-term loan and intended use of advanced weapons must still be carefully assessed.

Option 3 – Defer the decision:
Ajit could seek additional information about end-use and security risks. However, excessive delay could result in the order going to another supplier.

Why Country A?
On the information available, Country A presents comparatively lower identified risks and greater long-term strategic value. The decision should nevertheless be conditional on satisfactory due diligence.

(b) Balancing National Interest with Ethics

Ajit should:

• Conduct rigorous end-user and diversion-risk assessments before approval.
• Obtain appropriate End-User Certificates and establish post-delivery monitoring.
• Ensure compliance with India’s defence-export policy and applicable international obligations.
• Consider the impact of the weapons on regional peace and civilian populations.
• Balance employment, revenue and technology gains against humanitarian and security risks.
• Keep the decision-making process transparent and free from commercial or political pressure.

Example: India’s growing defence-export ambitions, including exports of systems such as BrahMos missiles and artillery systems, show how defence trade can strengthen domestic industry and strategic partnerships. At the same time, sensitive exports require careful end-use assessment because advanced weapons can have consequences far beyond the commercial transaction.

Conclusion

Ajit should follow the principle of enlightened national interest—pursuing economic and strategic benefits while ensuring that Indian weapons are not irresponsibly transferred. Hence, Country A is preferable on the facts given, subject to rigorous legal, security and end-use safeguards.

“In defence exports, national interest may guide the choice, but ethical responsibility must guide the manner of its execution.”