Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Brazil in July 2025, a trip that may solidify crucial agreements on defense and counter-terrorism between the two nations. This visit, following the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, underscores the deepening strategic partnership between India and Brazil, two significant players in the Global South.

Focus on Defence Cooperation

India and Brazil have been steadily increasing their defense cooperation, with a focus on co-production of technologically advanced defense products and exploration of new collaboration avenues. A defense cooperation agreement, initially signed in 2003 and ratified in 2006, established a Joint Defence Committee (JDC) as an institutional mechanism. Several JDC meetings have occurred, fostering high-level exchanges and visits in the field of defense.

A key development is the anticipated signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of Scorpene-class submarines. This agreement would allow India to maintain its submarines locally, reducing dependence on foreign expertise and boosting self-reliance. Brazil's expertise in submarine maintenance could significantly aid India in modernizing its naval capabilities.

Both countries are also eyeing joint development in military platforms, potentially including aircraft, missile systems, and ships. Embraer, a Brazilian aerospace company, has partnered with Mahindra Aerospace to explore opportunities in the Indian defense market, with the Embraer C-390 Millennium aircraft being considered for the Indian Air Force's future transport aircraft needs. Furthermore, during a Brazilian delegation visit to Aero India 2025, the BrahMos supersonic missile system was showcased, generating interest from Brazil.

Increased defense trade is a priority for India, with the government aiming to boost defense exports. India's defense minister announced that defense exports reached ₹21,083 crore in 2023-24, a 32.5% increase over the previous fiscal year. The strengthening of defense ties could help both countries diversify their sources of equipment and reduce reliance on traditional suppliers.

Counter-Terrorism Collaboration

In addition to defense, strengthening collaboration on counter-terrorism is a key agenda item. India has expressed its appreciation for Brazil's support in combating terrorism and has emphasized the need for a united global front against the menace. During the visit, pacts on counter-terrorism and safeguarding classified information may be signed.

An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor met with Brazil's Acting Foreign Minister Maria Laura da Rocha in June 2025 to discuss strengthening bilateral collaboration on anti-terrorism, multilateralism, and democratic values. The delegation conveyed India's bipartisan resolve and thanked Brazil for its support in the global fight against terror, particularly in the context of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. They also briefed Ambassador Celso Amorim, Head Adviser to the President of Brazil, on India's response to the attack and the need for strengthened global cooperation against terrorism.

Brazil has been actively involved in international counter-terrorism efforts. In 2022, it maintained strong counterterrorism cooperation with the United States, with the Brazilian Federal Police working closely with law enforcement from the United States and other nations to assess and mitigate potential terrorist threats. Brazil is also a member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Financial Action Task Force of Latin America (GAFILAT), demonstrating its commitment to countering the financing of terrorism.

Looking Ahead

PM Modi's visit to Brazil presents an opportunity to deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries, particularly in defense and counter-terrorism. By strengthening cooperation in these critical areas, India and Brazil can enhance their security capabilities and contribute to a more stable global order. The visit also aligns with Brazil's focus as the current chair of BRICS, on strengthening Global South cooperation and promoting more inclusive and sustainable governance.