New Delhi: Under self-reliant India, India is increasing its capabilities in manufacturing a variety of defense platforms and missiles. Akash is the country’s important missile, with more than 96 percent indigenization. Akash is a surface-to-air missile with firepower of up to 25 km. This missile was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2014 and the Indian Army in 2015.
After its induction into the defense services, many Allied countries showed interest in the Akash missile during the International Exhibitions / Defense Exhibition / Aero India. The approval of the Cabinet will facilitate Indian manufacturers to participate in the RFI / RFP issued by various countries.
Until now, Indian defense exports included parts/components etc. Export of large platforms was minimal. This initiative of the Cabinet will help the country to improve its defense products and make them globally competitive.
The export version of Akash will differ from the systems currently deployed in the Indian Armed Forces.
Apart from Akash, interest is also being shown in other major platforms such as coastal surveillance systems, radar, and air platforms. To provide speedy approval for the export of such platforms, a committee of Defense Minister, Foreign Minister and National Security Advisor has been constituted.
This committee will authorize exports of major indigenous platforms to various countries. The committee will also explore various options available, including procurement from one government to another.
The Indian government has thought to focus on exporting high-value defense platforms to achieve the target of US $ 5 billion in defense exports and to improve strategic relations with the Allies.