Amidst the increasing military tension between Iran, Israel and America in West Asia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is busy strengthening its security system. According to defense sources, UAE is in talks to purchase BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and Akashteer air defense command and control system from India.
In view of the threat of Indian weapons in Operation Sindoor, according to sources, the initial phase of talks regarding a defense deal between the two countries is progressing rapidly. It is being told that the size of the deal could be more than $1 billion, although both the countries have not yet announced any official price. If this agreement takes final form, it will prove to be one of India’s largest defense export deals.
Security strategy changed after Iran-Israel conflict
In recent months, increased military tensions between Iran and Israel and America’s regional role have increased the security concerns of the Gulf countries. Missiles, drones and long-range attacks have made it clear that conventional air defense systems alone are no longer sufficient.
The UAE is rapidly strengthening its military capabilities to secure the Strait of Hormuz, protect energy export routes and defend against possible missile attacks.
American air defense systems already exist
The UAE already has the world’s most advanced American air defense systems.
* THAAD System: To intercept long-range ballistic missiles.
* Patriot PAC-3: For protection against medium-range missile and air threats.
* ATACMS Missile: Long-range precision strike missile.
Despite this, UAE is now working on a policy of diversifying its defense suppliers and is considering India as a reliable defense partner.
Why is Akashteer important?
Akashteer is not a missile, but a modern air defense command and control system. Its job is to integrate multiple radars, sensors and air defense weapons. If systems like THAAD and Patriot are air defense weapons, then Akashteer can become their command center.
This system combines the information received from different radars and weapons in one place to rapidly identify the threat and helps in giving appropriate response.
Lessons learned from drone and missile attacks
Recent conflicts in the Middle East have shown that combined attacks using drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles have become the biggest challenge in modern wars. In such a situation, expensive interceptor systems alone are not enough, rather a strong command and control network is required, in which Akashteer can play an important role.
BrahMos will increase firepower
BrahMos, jointly developed by India and Russia, is among the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missiles. It can be fired from land, sea and air and is known for its high speed and accuracy. BrahMos can provide the UAE with long-range precision strike capability.
Strategic importance for India also
The growing defense cooperation between India and UAE is not limited to arms sales alone. Trade, energy, investment and strategic cooperation between the two countries has continuously strengthened. The possible sale of BrahMos and Akashteer to UAE is indicative of India’s growing strategic role in West Asia. Besides, this can also prove to be a step that will give new heights to India’s defense exports.
India’s defense exports have increased in the last few years and after the Philippines, many other countries have also shown interest in BrahMos. If this deal with UAE is successful, India can achieve another major milestone in the global defense export market.
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