India is preparing to supply Armenia with an indigenous anti-air system, continuing to broaden its export list to the European nation. This list currently features multi-barrel rocket launchers, artillery guns, various types of ammunition, and drones.
The deliveries of the Akash anti-air systems, produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), is expected to commence shortly, as part of a deal estimated to be worth Rs 6,000 crore, Economic Times reported citing sources.
This homegrown system is currently utilised by the Indian Armed forces and is also available for export to countries like Vietnam and the Philippines.
In April, the Ministry of Defence had mentioned an undisclosed export order for the anti-air system, without specifying the recipient country.
Previously in March, the Army had acquired two more regiments of the air defence system in a deal worth Rs 8,160 crore.
The enhanced version of the system, created by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, boasts a smaller footprint, advanced seekers, and a 360 degree Engagement Capability.
The system has an indigenous content of 82 per cent and 60 per cent of the project cost is awarded to the private industry, including MSMEs, to maintain a supply chain for the system.
In November last year, Kalyani Strategic Systems had announced a $155 million deal with an undisclosed international client for artillery guns. This order reportedly too was for Armenia.
This arms sale is part of India's larger geopolitical strategy, which has raised concerns among nations like Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan.
These countries perceive India's growing defense and strategic partnerships with Armenia and Greece as a challenge to their interests in the Middle East and Central Asia.
Armenia, a traditional ally of Russia, and Greece, a NATO member, are pivotal in India's efforts to assert its influence in the region.
The strengthening of ties with these nations is seen as a direct response to the informal alliance of Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan.
India's relationship with Armenia has been growing since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, culminating in a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement in 2019.
This partnership encompasses trade, investment, defense, and cultural cooperation.
Similarly, India's relations with Greece have been on the upswing, with a Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in 2020, enhancing cooperation in defense, trade, and energy.
These developments come at a time when the alliance of Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan faces internal challenges, including disagreements between Turkey and Azerbaijan over the Eastern Mediterranean.
India's strategic and subtle approach in building these relationships is seen as a long-term strategy to counterbalance the influence of these nations and China's expanding presence in the Mediterranean region.
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