India Showcases Powerful Akash Missile System to Brazil — Indigenous Air-Defense Marvel with 96% Accuracy Aims for $1.5 Billion Export Deal
India has pitched its indigenous Akash surface-to-air missile system to Brazil, marking a major step in its defense export push
India has pitched its indigenous weapons systems and platforms to Brazil during key talks that were held between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh withBrazil Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Defence Minister José Múcio Monteiro Filho in Delhi on Wednesday. A statement by the Indian side on the talks said, India and Brazil had “forward-looking discussions on issues pertaining to Defence Cooperation with a focus on expanding Military to Military Cooperation and Defence Industrial Collaboration”.
The talks focused on Brazil’s interest in the Akash missile system, an indigenous Indian medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) defense system designed to protect vulnerable areas, points, and assets from aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and helicopters. Developed under India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it is produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). In the past, India has exported the Akash missile system to Armenia, with the first battery delivered in November 2024.
In the past few years, India, Brazil have had talks on firming up defence ties. Brazil has been interested in secure communication systems on the battlefield and offshore patrol vessels from India. The South American country is also interested in partnering with Delhi in maintaining the Scorpene submarine, coastal surveillance system, and Garuda artillery guns.
The Indian statement on Wednesday’s talks said, “the leaders reviewed the progress of ongoing defence related initiatives and identified priority areas for joint work including exploring opportunities for co-development & co-production of defence equipment”.
The visit of the Brazilian vice president and defence minister is the 2nd high-level visit to India from Brazil in a few weeks’ time. Earlier this month, the Brazilian NSA had visited for talks with his counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval. Next year, Brazilian President Lula da Silva is expected to visit India for a state visit.
In a bold stride toward expanding its global defense footprint, India has officially pitched its indigenous Akash missile system to Brazil, showcasing the country’s growing prowess in advanced air-defense technology. The move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Make in India, Make for the World” vision and highlights India’s ambition to become a top global defense exporter by 2030.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM) is a medium-range, all-weather system designed to neutralize aerial threats including fighter jets, drones, and cruise missiles.
With a strike accuracy rate of 96% and a range of up to 30 kilometers, the system has been operationally deployed by both the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.
India’s defense export agency, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) — the system’s primary manufacturer — recently showcased the Akash Mk-1 and Mk-1S variants to a Brazilian Air Force delegation in Hyderabad. According to defense sources, Brazil has expressed strong interest in the platform for its multi-layered air defense modernization program.
If negotiations proceed successfully, defense experts estimate that the India-Brazil deal could be worth $1.5 billion, making it one of India’s largest-ever defense exports. The Akash proposal reportedly includes technology transfer (ToT), training packages, and joint manufacturing under Brazil’s “Strategic Defense Vision 2035.”
“India’s Akash system offers a perfect balance between affordability, reliability, and cutting-edge capability. It’s an ideal choice for developing nations seeking a credible defense shield.”
The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has been exploring advanced missile systems to replace its aging inventory, currently reliant on imported Western technology. The Indian offer comes at a time when Brazil seeks cost-effective, high-performance alternatives that also foster South-South defense cooperation.
Defense analysts view this as part of India’s strategic outreach to Latin America, which includes military training, defense technology exchange, and joint production. In recent years, India has already signed defense MoUs with Argentina, Chile, and Colombia, signaling a steady shift in its global defense diplomacy.
The Akash system is built around Rajendra radar technology, capable of tracking 64 targets simultaneously. It can intercept multiple aerial threats within seconds, thanks to its supersonic Mach 2.5 speed and integrated command control network.
One multifunction radar
One control center
One power supply vehicle
The system’s ability to defend 25 sq. km of airspace per unit makes it one of the most cost-efficient air-defense solutions available globally.
India’s defense exports have witnessed an unprecedented surge — rising from $213 million in 2014–15 to $2.63 billion in 2023–24, according to government data. The Akash missile, along with platforms like BrahMos, Pinaka, and Tejas, has been at the forefront of India’s international defense pitch.
If the Brazil deal materializes, it would mark India’s entry into the Latin American defense market, opening doors for future collaborations on aircraft, drones, and radar systems.
Read Also : Mumbai–Ahmedabad Highway Jam Forces 20 School Picnics to Vasai Postponed Until Diwali
