In a major embarrassment for India, Brazil has officially declined to purchase the Indian-made Akash missile system, citing poor targeting accuracy and outdated technology. Instead, Brazil has chosen the modern and more advanced Italian EMADS air defense system.
The decision raises serious concerns over the credibility and effectiveness of Indian defense exports, especially at a time when New Delhi is aggressively marketing its indigenous weapon systems to the world.
Analysts say the move exposes the technological limitations of India’s military industry and could hurt its global ambitions in the defense sector.
Adding to India’s setback, reports suggest that Brazilian defense officials encountered performance issues during testing and evaluation trials conducted earlier this year. The Akash system reportedly failed to meet Brazil’s interoperability standards and struggled in simulations involving high-speed aerial targets. Defense experts believe this rejection could influence other potential buyers in Latin America and Africa who were considering Indian weaponry.
India’s Ministry of Defence has not yet responded publicly to Brazil’s decision, but sources indicate a review of the Akash system’s export strategy may be underway. Meanwhile, Italy’s successful deal with Brazil strengthens its position as a preferred defense partner in the region, highlighting the growing divide between traditional defense exporters and nations still trying to establish global credibility.
