India and Brazil discussed the Akash Air Defence Missile deal and defence cooperation in New Delhi. Rajnath Singh deliberated with Brazilian officials to strengthen military and technical partnership.
New Delhi: Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held an important meeting with Brazil's Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and Brazil's Defence Minister José Mucio Monteiro Filho in New Delhi. The objective of this meeting was to strengthen military and defence industrial cooperation between the two countries. The deal for the Akash Air Defence Missile System was specifically discussed during the meeting. Rajnath Singh shared information on an X post, stating that both countries engaged in forward-looking deliberations for defence cooperation and shared security goals.
Defence Industrial Partnership
During the meeting, India and Brazil emphasized the possibilities of co-development and manufacturing of defence equipment. The main objective of the discussion was to enhance cooperation in innovation and technological development by leveraging the capabilities of both countries. Under this, a proposal for the supply of the Akash Air Defence System to Brazil was made.
What is the Akash Air Defence System
The Akash Air Defence System is India's indigenous medium-range surface-to-air missile system. It was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Its primary objective is to defend against aerial threats. The Akash system provides protection against enemy aircraft, missiles, drones, and other advanced UAVs. It is deployed in both the Indian Air Force and the Army and is produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited.
Prospects for a Defence Deal in Brazil
After the meeting, experts believe that Brazil may purchase the Indian Akash system in the near future. This deal could give a new direction to the defence relations between the two countries. Furthermore, this partnership could also strengthen Brazil's air defence infrastructure. The likelihood of India's indigenous defence technology gaining international acceptance has increased.
Shared Interests of Both Countries
The objective of defence cooperation between India and Brazil is not limited to just the missile system deal. Both countries also wish to promote cooperation in military training, technical assistance, and defence innovation. This partnership can strengthen the security balance in Asia and Latin America and is being forged with the strategic interests of both countries in mind.
Technical Specifications of the Akash System
The Akash missile system is a medium-range surface-to-air missile. Its range is approximately up to 30 kilometers, and it can target high-speed objectives. The Akash system can be deployed on mobile platforms and is controlled via radio command and a radar network. This system provides effective protection against modern aerial threats such as fighter jets, drones, and ballistic missiles.
Boost to India's Defence Export Policy
The discussions about the Akash deal with Brazil can also strengthen India's defence export policy. India has long been promoting the export of indigenous defence equipment. This deal could bring international recognition to the technical capabilities of the Indian defence industry.
