India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are in early-stage discussions over the possible export of some of India’s most advanced indigenous defence systems, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akashteer air defence command-and-control network, sources said.
The talks come as the Gulf nation moves to strengthen its defence preparedness in the aftermath of the recent Middle East conflict and shifting regional security dynamics. Officials familiar with the matter said the discussions are part of broader efforts by Abu Dhabi to diversify its defence suppliers and enhance its capability to counter emerging aerial threats, including missiles and drones.
According to sources, the UAE has expressed interest in multiple Indian weapons platforms, with particular focus on the BrahMos missile system and the Akashteer integrated air defence network. However, they stressed that negotiations remain at a preliminary stage.
The BrahMos system, jointly developed by India and Russia, is among the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missiles and can be deployed from land, sea and air platforms. Any export would require Russian approval due to its joint development structure, although officials indicated that clearance is not expected to be a major obstacle.
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The Akashteer system, developed by state-run Bharat Electronics Limited in collaboration with the Indian Army, is a fully automated air defence command-and-control platform. It integrates radar and sensor inputs to enable rapid detection and engagement of aerial threats, improving coordination across multiple air defence assets.
The UAE already operates advanced Western systems, including US-made THAAD and Patriot missile defence platforms, and is seeking to further strengthen its layered air defence architecture. Analysts say Indian systems could complement existing capabilities by improving real-time battlefield integration.
The defence engagement reflects rapidly expanding strategic ties between India and the UAE across trade, energy, investment and security cooperation. Both sides have signed multiple agreements in recent years, including collaborations in defence manufacturing and technology sharing.
India’s growing defence export ambitions have also gained momentum, with BrahMos emerging as a flagship product attracting interest from several countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. The missile has already been exported to the Philippines, while agreements with Vietnam and Indonesia are also in progress.
Officials said India’s expanding defence manufacturing base and recent operational use of indigenous systems have significantly boosted international demand for its weapon platforms.
The discussions with the UAE underline India’s broader push to position itself as a credible global defence exporter while deepening strategic partnerships in key regions such as the Gulf.
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