Archive · 2 Oct 2026
Akash and BrahMos Drive India’s Defence Export Surge
India is selling more of its own military equipment to other countries.
Two important missile systems are Akash and BrahMos.
BrahMos is a fast, long-range missile, and its export agreements are expected to bring in more than $600 million.
The Philippines has already received some BrahMos systems, while Indonesia and Vietnam are expected to buy them.
Akash is a missile system designed to protect areas from aircraft and other flying threats.
Armenia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan have bought Akash systems.
Indian officials say Akash production is now steady and more orders may come.
India’s total defence exports reached a record level in the 2025–26 financial year.
Officials view these sales as evidence that India is becoming a stronger designer and producer of advanced military equipment.
BrahMos exports are expected to exceed $600 million through deals involving the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.
The Philippines has received about $330 million worth of BrahMos systems, while prospective deals are valued at about $100 million for Vietnam and $200 million for Indonesia.
Akash has become an export success, with confirmed sales to Armenia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan and stabilised production.
India’s defence exports reached a record Rs 38,424 crore in 2025–26, up 62.66% from the previous year.
The Defence Ministry says Indian defence equipment now reaches more than 80 countries, with exports split between public-sector and private companies.
- Who
- India, represented by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, is exporting the BrahMos and Akash missile systems to foreign buyers.
- What
- India’s missile exports are expanding, with BrahMos exports expected to exceed $600 million and Akash sales growing.
- When
- The export figures and official comments cited in the report concern 2025–26 and statements made in 2026.
- Where
- BrahMos sales involve the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam; Akash sales involve Armenia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.
- Why
- The systems are being exported because they are presented as capable, comparatively cost-effective and increasingly mature indigenous defence products.
- Projected BrahMos exports
- Expected to exceed USD 600 million.
- BrahMos buyers
- The Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.
- BrahMos deliveries to Philippines
- About USD 330 million worth of systems have been delivered.
- Akash export customers
- Armenia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.
- India’s 2025–26 defence exports
- Rs 38,424 crore, up 62.66% from Rs 23,622 crore the previous year.
- Public-sector contribution
- Defence public-sector undertakings accounted for 54.84%, or Rs 21,071 crore.
- Private-sector contribution
- Private companies accounted for 45.16%, or Rs 17,353 crore.