Akash Missile System Could Power Brazil’s Air Defence: Major Step In Taking Made In India Defence Global
Our indigenous Akash Missile System could soon power Brazil air defences. Image courtesy: X.com/@DRDO_India
Soon, Brazil could be using Made in India medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile (SAM) system Akash. India is understood to have proposed the supply of the Akash missile system to the South American country as Rajnath Singh held extensive discussions with Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin on Wednesday (October 15, 2025).
During the meeting, both leaders “identified priority areas” for collaboration, including the potential for co-development and co-production of defence equipment. Brazil’s Defence Minister José Múcio Monteiro Filho, also attended the talks.
Indigenously made Akash missile recently proved its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, when it successfully neutralised Pakistani drones and missiles following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Akash missile: What makes it so worthy?
The Akash missile is a surface-to-air system developed indigenously in India. Capable of intercepting enemy aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles at ranges of up to 45 kilometres, it was designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Its cost-effectiveness and reliability have made it appealing to nations looking to bolster their air defence.
Another notable feature of the system is its capability of real time multi sensor data processing and threat evaluation enables simultaneous engagement of multiple targets from any direction. The entire system is flexible, up scalable and can be operated in group and autonomous modes.
Akash missile system employs command guidance and relies on phased array guidance radar to guide the missile till intercept.
How old and strong is the India-Brazil strategic partnership?
India and Brazil have shared a strategic partnership since 2003, cooperating in multilateral forums such as the G20 and BRICS. As South America’s largest nation, Brazil has growing defence needs, and the Akash system could significantly enhance its aerial security.
Should the deal be finalised, it would mark a major step in expanding India’s defence exports. The Akash missile has already been exported to Armenia, and a sale to Brazil would underscore India’s emergence as both a producer and supplier of advanced military technology. Broader cooperation is anticipated across defence, trade and technology, though challenges such as potential pressure from the United States remain.
Despite US President Donald Trump’s disapproval, India appears committed to strengthening Brazil’s military capabilities. The Akash missile system stands as a testament to the success of the “Make in India” initiative and India’s growing stature in global defence innovation.
Is there any country bought Akash Missile?
The export of the Akash Missile System was authorised by the Union Cabinet in December 2020. The Akash was initially inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2014, followed by its deployment in the Indian Army in 2015. In 2022, Armenia agreed to procure 15 Akash systems in a deal valued at approximately RS 6,000 crore, becoming the first nation to purchase this system from India.
In the same year, India secured a significant export contract with the Philippines for the supply of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, marking the country’s first major defence export order. The Philippines received its initial consignment of BrahMos missiles in April, signifying the successful completion of this landmark agreement.
During the recent meeting, Defence Minister Singh and Brazilian VP reviewed the broader contours of the India–Brazil strategic partnership and identified key areas for deepened cooperation, particularly in defence manufacturing and technology. They “identified priority areas” for collaboration, including potential co-development and co-production of advanced defence equipment.
