Brazil Explores Acquisition of India's Akash Air Defense and Garuda Artillery Systems
India's defense export aspirations received a boost as Brazil showed interest in acquiring the Akash air defense system and Garuda artillery guns, both products of the Make in India initiative. This announcement precedes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Brazil for the BRICS Summit from July 5 to 8.
During a press briefing, P Kumaran, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, confirmed ongoing discussions with Brazil to enhance bilateral defense cooperation. He noted that dialogues are centered around joint research, technology sharing, and training exchanges. Although these talks are still in the early stages, several Indian defense platforms have piqued Brazil's interest.
Brazil is considering various Indian defense platforms, including secure communication systems, offshore patrol vessels, coastal surveillance systems, Garuda artillery guns, and the Akash surface-to-air missile system. Additionally, Brazil has shown interest in collaborating with India on the maintenance of Scorpene-class submarines and possibly initiating joint manufacturing projects in the defense sector.
The Akash system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is a medium-range, mobile surface-to-air missile system designed to counter aerial threats like fighter jets, drones, and cruise missiles. It boasts a range of 25–45 km and can engage targets at altitudes up to 20 km, traveling at speeds between Mach 1.8 and 2.5 using a ramjet-rocket propulsion system. The Akash system was crucial during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, effectively defending against drone and missile attacks from Pakistan.
The Garuda artillery gun, another indigenous development, is noted for its precision and mobility, especially in coastal and rapid deployment operations. Its design and flexibility have garnered interest from several countries seeking modern artillery solutions.
Brazil is also evaluating opportunities for joint ventures in defense manufacturing, building on its aerospace capabilities through Embraer. Kumaran highlighted the potential for collaboration, given Brazil's strengths in the aircraft industry.
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Brazil is part of a larger international tour that will also include stops in Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Namibia. The discussions in Brazil are expected to play a crucial role in India's strategy to increase defense exports and enhance strategic ties with Latin America.
