India is in early-stage discussions with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to export key defence systems, including the BrahMos missile system and the Akashteer air defence system, according to reports citing Indian government sources. The talks are still preliminary but are said to be progressing quickly, reflecting growing defence cooperation between the two countries.

Officials familiar with the discussions said the UAE has shown interest in multiple Indian-made defence platforms as it seeks to strengthen its air defence capabilities. The interest comes amid heightened regional security concerns and a broader push by Gulf nations to modernise their military infrastructure and protect critical assets, including strategic maritime routes.

The UAE’s defence review has gained urgency following recent regional tensions, including attacks attributed to Iran during the broader Middle East conflict. As part of its response, the country is reportedly exploring systems that can enhance protection of key infrastructure such as the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor.

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The BrahMos missile system, jointly developed by India and Russia, is considered one of the fastest supersonic cruise missiles in operation and can be deployed from land, sea, and air platforms. The Akashteer air defence system, developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd in collaboration with the Indian Army, is designed to integrate radar and weapon systems into a unified command network for faster response to aerial threats.

Any potential export of the BrahMos system would require approval from Russia due to its joint development framework. However, sources cited in reports indicated that this is unlikely to pose a major obstacle, given Moscow’s strategic ties with Abu Dhabi and existing defence cooperation frameworks.

India has been steadily expanding its defence export footprint in recent years, with the Philippines already becoming the first international buyer of the BrahMos system. Additional agreements with countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia have also been reported or are in advanced stages, signalling India’s growing ambition to position itself as a global defence exporter.

If finalised, a deal with the UAE would mark a significant milestone in India’s defence diplomacy, further strengthening strategic ties between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi while reinforcing India’s role in the global arms market.

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