In a significant development for India’s defence export ambitions, Brazil has expressed interest in acquiring the Akash air defense system and Garuda artillery guns, both developed under the Make in India initiative. The announcement comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Brazil for the BRICS Summit from July 5 to 8.
Speaking at a press briefing, P Kumaran, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, confirmed ongoing talks with Brazil on expanding bilateral defense cooperation. “There is going to be discussions on defense cooperation and enhancing it with Brazil. We’re looking at avenues for joint research, technology sharing, and training exchanges,” he said, adding that while talks are at a preliminary stage, several Indian platforms have generated interest.
Among the platforms Brazil is considering are secure communication systems, offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), coastal surveillance systems, Garuda artillery guns, and notably, the Akash surface-to-air missile system. Brazil has also expressed interest in collaborating with India on the maintenance of Scorpene-class submarines and potentially launching joint manufacturing ventures in the defense sector.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Akash system is a medium-range, mobile SAM designed to counter aerial threats such as fighter jets, drones, and cruise missiles. With a range of 25–45 km and engagement altitude of up to 20 km, the Akash travels at speeds of Mach 1.8 to 2.5 using a ramjet-rocket propulsion system. It played a critical role during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, successfully repelling multiple drone and missile attacks from Pakistan and protecting key Indian assets.
The Garuda artillery gun, another indigenous defense innovation, has been recognized for its precision and mobility, particularly in coastal and rapid deployment scenarios. Its design and operational flexibility have attracted attention from multiple countries exploring modern artillery solutions.
Brazil is also exploring the potential for joint ventures in defense manufacturing, leveraging its own capabilities in aerospace through Embraer. “There is a lot of potential for us to work with Brazil given their strength in Embraer and in the aircraft industry in general,” Kumaran added.
Following his Brazil visit, Prime Minister Modi will also travel to Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Namibia during his eight-day international tour. The discussions with Brazil are expected to form a key part of India’s strategy to boost defense exports and expand strategic cooperation with Latin America.
