India–UAE defence talks gain momentum as BrahMos missile sale

Officials say the conversations remain at a preliminary stage, but interest from Abu Dhabi has expanded as the Gulf state accelerates its military procurement strategy in response

India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are reportedly in early but fast-moving discussions over a potential defence agreement that could include the sale of advanced weapons systems such as the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile and the Akashteer air defence network, according to sources familiar with the talks.

Officials say the conversations remain at a preliminary stage, but interest from Abu Dhabi has expanded as the Gulf state accelerates its military procurement strategy in response to heightened regional security concerns following recent conflict in the Middle East.

The proposed deal would mark a significant step in defence cooperation between India and United Arab Emirates, two countries that have deepened ties in trade, energy, and security in recent years. UAE officials are said to be exploring a diversified range of suppliers to strengthen its defence readiness and reduce reliance on a single partner.

Among the systems under discussion is the BrahMos missile, one of the fastest cruise missiles in the world capable of being launched from land, sea, and air platforms. The UAE is also reportedly interested in the Akashteer air defence system, which integrates battlefield data to improve response against aerial threats.

Because BrahMos is jointly developed with Moscow, any export would require approval from Russia, although sources suggest this is unlikely to obstruct the deal due to Russia’s existing ties with Gulf partners.

The UAE’s interest in strengthening its air defence capabilities has grown amid evolving regional tensions and the need to secure vital maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, a key corridor for global energy shipments.

If concluded, the agreement would add to India’s expanding defence export footprint, which has recently included sales and interest from countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and others. India has already delivered BrahMos systems to the Philippines, marking its first major international export of the missile.

The potential deal also highlights shifting strategic alignments in the Gulf, where states are increasingly balancing relationships among global arms suppliers including the United States, Europe, and emerging partners like India. Analysts say the growing defence engagement between India and the UAE also reflects broader regional competition and efforts by both countries to project stronger strategic autonomy.