Key facts
- India is in talks with the UAE to potentially sell its supersonic cruise missile BrahMos.
- The UAE has also shown interest in India's Akashteer air defence system.
- Discussions are in initial stages but progressing quickly.
- The UAE is enhancing its arms procurement following recent regional attacks.
- India would need Russia's approval for the BrahMos sale, as it is jointly developed.
- India's defense exports have seen a substantial increase in recent years.
India is reportedly in discussions with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the potential sale of its advanced defense systems, including the supersonic cruise missile BrahMos and the Akashteer air defense system. These talks, which have not been previously disclosed, are described as being in their initial stages but progressing rapidly.
The UAE's increased interest in arms procurement stems from its heightened security concerns following recent attacks and its efforts to enhance its defensive capabilities, particularly in light of its crucial role in energy exports via the Strait of Hormuz. The nation has been actively seeking to diversify its supplier base for greater strategic autonomy.
The BrahMos missile, a joint development between India and Russia, is recognized as one of the fastest cruise missiles globally, capable of being launched from various platforms. The Akashteer system is an automated air defense solution developed by India's Bharat Electronics Ltd and the Indian Army.
While India has had past reports of arms export deals that did not materialize, experts suggest that sales to the UAE and other Gulf states are plausible. The deepening defense ties between India and the UAE are seen as a strategic signal, reflecting changing regional geopolitical dynamics and competition for leadership in the Middle East. India views this partnership as a counter to recent defense pacts in the region.
India's defense exports have seen a significant surge, reaching over $4 billion in the year ending March 2026, a substantial increase from previous years. The country has already secured deals to export BrahMos missiles to Vietnam and Indonesia, with interest also expressed by other nations.