India Offers Akash Missile System to Brazil to Strengthen Defence Cooperation

India has taken a major step in deepening defence ties with Brazil by proposing the supply of its indigenous Akash surface-to-air missile system. This initiative was discussed during high-level talks between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin in New Delhi on October 15, 2025. Brazilian Defence Minister José Múcio Monteiro Filho also participated in the discussions, emphasizing both nations’ commitment to expanding military collaboration.

File Image- PTI | Firstpost

Strengthening Bilateral Defence Relations

The meeting highlighted the strategic intent of India and Brazil to deepen defence cooperation. Both sides focused on enhancing military-to-military exchanges, conducting joint exercises, and implementing training programs. Furthermore, the leaders explored opportunities for co-development and co-production of defence equipment. The discussions reflected a shared vision of creating a more robust partnership that combines technological expertise with operational collaboration.

The Akash Missile System: India’s Indigenous Defence Technology

The Akash missile system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is a mobile, medium-range surface-to-air missile designed to neutralize aerial threats. It has been successfully deployed by the Indian Armed Forces and exported to countries such as Armenia. Capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously, the system provides advanced protection to critical infrastructure and strategic assets.

Brazil had previously engaged in negotiations for the Akash-NG (New Generation) variant, but talks were temporarily paused in favor of discussions with MBDA for its Enhanced Modular Air Defence Solutions system. The renewed offer from India reflects both the country’s readiness to expand defence exports and Brazil’s interest in modernising its air defence capabilities.

Broader Implications for India-Brazil Partnership

This proposal is part of India’s larger strategy to strengthen strategic partnerships through defence exports. By offering the Akash system, India not only seeks to bolster regional security but also promote economic growth via advanced defence technology collaboration. The discussions pave the way for Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s planned visit to India in early 2026, which is expected to further deepen bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation.

The MGMM Outlook

India’s recent proposal to supply its indigenous Akash missile system to Brazil represents a strategic step in strengthening defence ties between the two nations. During high-level talks in New Delhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin emphasized the importance of expanding military collaboration through joint exercises, training programs, and potential co-development of defence technology. The discussions signal India’s intent to not only share its advanced technological expertise but also build a robust partnership that combines operational readiness with long-term strategic alignment. The Akash system, already deployed successfully by the Indian Armed Forces and exported to countries like Armenia, offers Brazil an opportunity to modernize its air defence capabilities with a proven, medium-range surface-to-air missile system.

Beyond the immediate defence benefits, this initiative highlights India’s broader strategy of using defence exports to strengthen international partnerships while promoting economic growth through technology collaboration. By renewing the offer after prior discussions on the Akash-NG variant, India demonstrates readiness to engage with Brazil on a deeper, mutually beneficial level. The move also lays the groundwork for Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s planned visit to India in early 2026, which is expected to further consolidate strategic ties and explore new areas for cooperation, reflecting a shared commitment to regional security and technological exchange.

(Sources: Firstpost, Times of India, Business Standard)