Global Arms Makers Hawk Their Wares in India

Voice of America News, NEW DELHI: Some of the world's leading weapons manufacturers have participated in a defense exhibition in India. The companies are eager for a share of a major market – India is one of the world's biggest importers of arms. 
 
More than 400 companies from 38 countries, including Britain, France, the United States, Israel, South Africa and Russia, showcased their wares at a four-day defense show held in the Indian capital over the past several days. Taking part were leading manufacturers such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing and Rolls Royce. 
 
The companies are eyeing India's massive defense budget, which has been rising steadily as the country modernizes its outdated hardware. In 2004 India was the developing world's leading buyer of conventional weapons, spending nearly $6 billion on arms purchases. 
 
Rahul Bedi of Jane's Defense Weekly says over the next two to three years India will spend billions of dollars more on an array of defense equipment ranging from fighter jets to missile production systems. 
 
“It is looking at acquiring 126 multi-role aircraft, which is a contract worth anywhere between $7 and $9 billion; it is looking to buy submarines from Russia; it is looking to buy artillery from various competitive sources