April 5, 2024
India is actively expanding its presence in Latin American defence markets
Brazilian firms like Embraer are entering the Indian defence sector
The growth of defence trade aligns with India's goal to boost defence export
Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims for US$ 5 billion in defence hardware exports by 2025
India and Brazil are intensifying efforts to strengthen defence cooperation, as highlighted by Brazilian secretary for defence products, Rui Mesquita. Mesquita outlined various areas for collaboration, including technology sharing, joint defence system development, capacity building, and supply chain enhancement.
India is actively expanding its presence in Latin American defence markets, exemplified by initiatives like offering Tejas fighter aircraft to Argentina. Similarly, Brazilian firms like Embraer are entering the Indian defence sector. Embraer and Mahindra Defence recently agreed to collaborate on fulfilling the Indian Air Force’s medium transport aircraft requirement.
The growth of defence trade aligns with India’s goal to boost defence exports, with Honourable Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reporting a 32.5% increase in exports to INR 21,083 crore in 2023-24. Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims for US$ 5 billion in defence hardware exports by 2025.
Mesquita highlighted discussions on joint ventures and service provision in defence. His visit to India was part of the India-Brazil Subgroup on Défense, emphasizing the potential of closer defence ties to diversify equipment sources and reduce reliance on traditional suppliers.
Bilateral discussions between President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023 underscored support for joint exercises and collaboration in defence technology, affirming a commitment to strengthen defence cooperation.
Source: Mint