India faces Chinese competition for Brasil's air defense modernization program.

China and India are competing to provide air defense systems to Brazil. There is talk of a potential contract for the supply of air defense systems for the Brazilian armed forces.
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Latest variant, Akash Prime missile being fired from a mobile launcher (Picture source: DRDO)

India is trying to convince Brazil to purchase its Akash SAM (Iron Dome) air defense system. China, on the other hand, is presenting its own air defense system, the "Heavenly Dragon." The advantages and disadvantages of both air defense systems are currently being evaluated by specialists from the Brazilian armed forces.

Brazil has recently become concerned with strengthening its air defense system. In this regard, on June 21, the Brazilian army issued a request for the acquisition of an air defense system project capable of targeting medium and high-altitude aerial targets. It is noted that, so far, the Brazilian army is inclined towards the Indian proposal.

The Indian Akash SAM (Surface-to-Air Missile) is a medium-range air defense system developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Equipped with a multifunctional Rajendra radar, it can detect and track up to 64 targets simultaneously. The missile, powered by a dual-pulse motor, reaches a speed of Mach 2.8 and has a range of about 30 km. It is equipped with a 60 kg fragmentation warhead and uses a semi-active radar guidance system to accurately hit its target.

However, the Chinese are also in the race with the Sky Dragon.

The Sky Dragon is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system developed by China, designed by the China Academy of Defence Technology. It uses a 3D IBIS150 search radar that can track up to 144 targets simultaneously and engage 12 targets at the same time. The Sky Dragon missile has an effective range of 50 km and a maximum engagement altitude of 20 km. Powered by a solid fuel engine, it reaches supersonic speeds. The system uses semi-active radar guidance in its terminal phase, ensuring high accuracy against targets such as aircraft and helicopters.

General Tomas Miguel Mine Ribeiro Paiva has proposed a government agreement with India for the acquisition of the Akash air defense system. Meanwhile, the Brazilian military chief will make an official visit to China to discuss potential cooperation between the two states in the field of defense.

Previously, a delegation of the Brazilian armed forces had already visited China, where they familiarized themselves with the operation of the Sky Dragon 50 or Tianlong-50 air defense system, as well as the SH15 self-propelled howitzer. Subsequently, the Brazilian delegation visited India. General Paiva discovered the capabilities of the Akash air defense system, Arjun tanks, and Dhruva Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH).

According to military sources, the Indian Akash air defense system (AWS) can simultaneously engage multiple targets in group mode. The system is installed on a mobile platform. With such a system, it is possible to shoot down helicopters, fighter jets, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The system is notable for its efficiency in detecting and engaging aerial targets. It is known that Armenia has already placed an order for the acquisition of an Indian air defense system. Besides Brazil, the Philippines and Vietnam are also interested in it.