New Delhi: India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are engaged in early-stage discussions over the possible sale of some of India’s flagship defence systems, including the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile and the Akashteer air defence network, according to multiple Indian sources familiar with the matter.
The proposed deal reflects the UAE’s increasing focus on strengthening its defence capabilities following heightened security concerns in the Middle East and marks another step in the expanding strategic partnership between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi.
Sources said the UAE has expressed interest in acquiring several Indian-made weapon systems, with negotiations over the BrahMos missile and Akashteer air defence platform progressing at an initial but reportedly fast pace. Neither the Indian government nor the UAE Foreign Ministry has officially commented on the discussions.
BrahMos, jointly developed by India and Russia, is regarded as one of the world’s fastest operational supersonic cruise missiles and can be launched from land, sea and air platforms. Akashteer, meanwhile, is an advanced automated air defence command-and-control system developed by Bharat Electronics Limited in collaboration with the Indian Army to integrate and coordinate responses against aerial threats.
The UAE’s interest in Indian defence equipment comes as it seeks to diversify its military procurement strategy after regional conflicts underscored the need for stronger missile defence and surveillance capabilities. Protecting critical infrastructure and shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz remains a key security priority for the Gulf nation.
Earlier this year, the UAE also signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea aimed at expanding defence cooperation in projects reportedly valued at more than $35 billion.
Analysts say broadening its supplier base gives the UAE greater strategic flexibility while allowing it to deepen ties with India without undermining its longstanding security relationship with the United States.
According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the United States remained the largest arms supplier to the Middle East between 2021 and 2025, accounting for 54% of imports, followed by Italy and France.
Any export of the BrahMos missile to the UAE would likely require Russia’s approval because the system is jointly developed. However, sources suggested this is unlikely to become a major obstacle given Moscow’s close relations with Abu Dhabi.
Defence experts note that while the UAE already operates advanced American systems such as the MGM-168 ATACMS missile, THAAD and Patriot air defence platforms, Akashteer could complement these assets by integrating information from multiple sensors and coordinating responses to airborne threats.
The reported negotiations also highlight the strengthening relationship between India and the UAE, which has expanded significantly in recent years through agreements on trade, energy and defence cooperation, including plans to jointly develop military hardware.
Regional analysts believe closer defence ties between the two countries reflect broader geopolitical shifts in the Gulf and serve as a signal of their growing strategic partnership amid evolving security dynamics in the region.
Although discussions remain at an early stage and no agreement has been announced, a successful deal would represent another milestone in India’s efforts to expand defence exports and establish itself as a major supplier of advanced military technology on the global stage.
