India's indigenous Akash air defense system is gaining international attention, with Brazil reportedly showing strong interest in acquiring the system ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit in July. This interest highlights the growing recognition of India's capabilities in defense manufacturing and the increasing competitiveness of its defense products in the global market.
Akash Air Defence System: A Profile
The Akash missile system is a short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The Akash system is designed to protect vulnerable areas and assets from air attacks. It can engage multiple targets simultaneously in both group and autonomous modes. The system has a range of 4.5 to 25 km and can engage targets at altitudes of up to 20 km. It is capable of neutralizing aerial threats such as fighter jets, cruise missiles, and air-to-surface missiles. The Akash missile features a solid-fuel, ramjet propulsion system, enabling it to reach speeds of Mach 2.5 to 3.5. Each missile carries a 60 kg warhead and has a high kill probability. The system is fully mobile and can be deployed on both wheeled and tracked vehicles.
The Akash system has been continuously evolving, with newer versions like the Akash-NG featuring advanced capabilities. The Akash-NG has an extended range of 70-80 km and is designed to counter more sophisticated aerial threats, including stealth aircraft and high-speed missiles.
Operational Success: 'Op Sindoor'
The Akash air defense system played a crucial role in India's "Operation Sindoor", effectively countering aerial attacks. The Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed the Akash system, which played a pivotal role in neutralizing aerial threats, including drones and missiles. The success of Operation Sindoor has underscored the credibility of India's indigenous defense equipment. Prime Minister Modi has lauded the operation, emphasizing the arrival of "Made-in-India" defense equipment in 21st-century warfare.
Brazil's Defence Modernization and India's Opportunity
Brazil has been working to modernize its armed forces, with increased spending on defense imports expected in the coming years. The country's defense spending reached $23.8 billion in 2023. While Brazil also exports arms, it still imports a significant amount of military equipment. Historically, Brazil's main arms suppliers have included Germany, the USA, the UK, Russia, France and Israel. However, India is emerging as a potential key partner.
Brazil's interest in the Akash system aligns with its air force modernization efforts. The potential acquisition of the Akash system could strengthen defense cooperation between India and Brazil. Indian PSU Bharat Electronics Limited is also set to open its first South American office in Rio de Janeiro, further strengthening defense industrial links.
PM Modi's Visit and Future Cooperation
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit Brazil in July, following the 17th BRICS Summit. Discussions are expected to cover trade expansion, defense cooperation, energy collaboration, technological innovation, and strengthening ties between the people of both countries. Both nations are aiming to strengthen institutional connections and explore new initiatives in areas like space exploration and digital transformation. A focus will likely be on strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Brazil.
