ISLAMABAD: A major blow to India’s defense export sector, Brazil has suspended negotiations for the purchase of the Indian Akash surface-to-air missile system, and is now considering acquiring a European alternative with more advanced capabilities.
According to a report by the Economic Times, the Brazilian Air Force, which had earlier expressed interest in the older version of the Akash missile system, is now evaluating the CAMM-ER missile system developed by European defense manufacturer MBDA. The system is part of the Enhanced Modular Air Defence Solutions (EMADS), already deployed by the UK, Italy, and Poland.
The European defense manufacturer MBDA developed, CAMM-ER system boasts a range of approximately 45 kilometers, compared to the 25–30-kilometer range of the Indian Akash system. Additionally, the European missile features 360-degree coverage, soft vertical launch technology, and a modern radar seeker, making it a more technologically attractive option.
Brazil is reportedly eyeing a $920 million (approx. 5 billion Brazilian Reals) deal that includes launchers, missiles, radars, and command systems.
Despite recent high-level discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, where both leaders pledged to enhance defense cooperation, there was no substantial progress made regarding the Akash missile deal.
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This development highlights the broader challenge India faces as it attempts to increase its presence in the global defense market, which remains fiercely competitive due to the dominance of established Western defense manufacturers.
