Prime Minister Modi Arrives in Brazil for BRICS Summit and Military Discussions
Modi's Visit to Brazil
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in Brazil as part of his tour across five nations. He is set to participate in the 17th BRICS summit taking place in Rio de Janeiro. This marks the 12th occasion that he is attending this significant conference. On July 8, he will hold a bilateral meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, where several important agreements are anticipated.
Historical Ties Between India and Brazil
Diplomatic relations between India and Brazil were established in 1948, coinciding with the opening of embassies in both countries. In 2006, the nations elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership. They are members of various multilateral organizations, including BRICS, G-20, G-4, the International Solar Alliance, UNESCO, the United Nations, and the World Trade Organization. High-level visits involving presidents and prime ministers have been frequent, covering areas such as defense, space, and technology.
Defense Cooperation
In 2003, India and Brazil signed a defense agreement and established a Joint Defense Committee (JDC), which has convened seven times to date. Over the past three years, high-level defense delegations from both countries have been visiting each other regularly. Meetings at the foreign minister level, strategic dialogues, and the formation of a Joint Defense Commission have been initiated to enhance defense relations.
Frequent Visits by Defense Officials
Numerous high-level defense delegations have traveled between India and Brazil. The Chief of the Indian Air Force has visited Brazil, while the Brazilian Air Force Commander has made a trip to India. In August, Brazil's Navy Commander also visited India for five days. Since 2007, a total of 134 defense officials have been trained, with 70 from India and 64 from Brazil.
Brazil's Interest in Indian Defense Equipment
Brazil has expressed interest in acquiring various defense systems from India, including the medium-range surface-to-air Akash missile system developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), which performed exceptionally during 'Operation Sindoor.' Additionally, Brazil is looking at India's Scorpene-class submarines and Garuda artillery. There is also potential for Brazil to purchase patrol vessels and Tejas fighter jets from India.
Expected Defense Agreements During the Visit
Former Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, P. Kumaran, noted that Brazil is interested in partnerships for secure communication systems, patrol vessels, Scorpene-class submarines, the Akash system, coastal surveillance systems, and Garuda artillery. Both nations may initiate a joint venture through the Brazilian company Embraer, and there could be an agreement with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for submarine maintenance. Reports suggest that Embraer may partner with Mahindra for the production of C-390 in India.
India's Goals for Defense Exports
India aims to increase its defense exports to ₹50,000 crores by 2029, making partnerships with Brazil crucial. The country's defense exports reached ₹23,000 crores in 2025, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. Over the last decade, India's defense exports have surged nearly thirtyfold. Brazil's defense budget for 2024 was ₹2 lakh crores, and its military ranks as the 11th largest in the world.