A monumental $3.5-4 billion defense deal is set to be finalized between India and Armenia, a strategic move occurring amid heightened regional tensions with Azerbaijan. This significant pact will reportedly include state-of-the-art air defense systems, advanced missile platforms, and vital artillery, enhancing Armenia’s military capabilities and expanding India’s strategic footprint in the South Caucasus.
At the forefront of the deal is the Akash-NG missile system, a next-generation air defense solution noted for its advanced interception capabilities and superior range. Its performance has made it a sought-after asset for strengthening Armenia’s aerial defenses.
Additionally, Armenia is showing considerable interest in acquiring India’s supersonic BrahMos cruise missile. This weapon system is recognized for its formidable power and strategic implications. Defense strategists view this potential acquisition as a major boost for Armenia’s defense posture, while simultaneously elevating India’s defense export market and reinforcing the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
This significant agreement builds upon ongoing defense cooperation between the two nations. Since 2022, India has supplied Armenia with a range of sophisticated military hardware, including the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket system, Konkurs anti-tank guided missiles, 155mm howitzer guns, the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Akash and Akash-NG air defense batteries, anti-drone systems, and ammunition.
Further deepening the strategic alliance, India and Armenia are exploring options for co-producing the BrahMos missile, which could involve local manufacturing of certain components in Armenia. This collaboration signifies a high level of trust and technological exchange.
Experts highlight that this comprehensive defense deal will not only fortify Armenia’s military but also significantly amplify India’s influence and strategic positioning within the South Caucasus.
Armenia has emerged as a key buyer of Indian defense equipment, with significant procurement activity intensifying since 2023. Diplomatic engagement has also deepened, marked by the appointment of India’s first defense attaché in Armenia in 2023, and Armenia’s reciprocal posting in Yerevan in April 2024, a first for the Caucasus region.
The initial phase of this defense partnership began with a $40 million deal for the Swathi weapon-locating radar system. This technology proved highly effective, providing Armenia with a critical advantage in identifying threats from Azerbaijan and outperforming comparable international radar systems.
As Armenia modernizes its defense infrastructure, moving beyond its traditional reliance on Soviet-era armaments, Indian technology is playing a pivotal role. The defense collaboration between India and Armenia represents a new strategic era, blending cutting-edge Indian military systems with Armenia’s specific security needs.
This substantial arms deal underscores India’s growing strategic presence in the South Caucasus and demonstrates the global appeal and advanced capabilities of its indigenous defense manufacturing sector.