New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is overseas on a week-long tour from July 2 to 9. His stops embody Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia. Diplomacy is driving the headlines, however defence is a powerful subplot. Behind closed doorways, New Delhi is watching weapon programs, surveillance gear, drone packages and potential partnerships.
Ghana – A Defence Sector Nonetheless Taking Form
Ghana’s navy doesn’t make world rankings. It focuses on native stability and regional peacekeeping. Most of its tools comes from imports.
Assault rifles just like the AK-47 are widespread. Armoured automobiles are few. Superior missiles and tanks are practically absent.
In recent times, the nation has proven curiosity in drones. Indigenous manufacturing is restricted. India might step in. Cybersecurity, drone surveillance and coaching might anchor future cooperation.
Trinidad and Tobago – A Coast Guard With Strategic Potential
This Caribbean nation runs a small and targeted navy. Inside safety and coastal patrols form its priorities. Its defence pressure makes use of mild armoured automobiles and customary firearms. It has no missiles, no submarines and no nuclear functionality.
However its coast guard has patrol boats and surveillance choppers. India has longstanding ties with Port of Spain. A recent defence chapter might open, particularly with patrol vessels and unmanned aerial automobiles (UAVs).
Argentina – A Conventional Pressure Trying To Modernise
Argentina fields a mid-tier navy by South American requirements. Its air pressure nonetheless makes use of Mirage jets purchased from France. It operates domestically developed TAM tanks. Diesel-electric submarines type the core of its navy.
However finances cuts have slowed upgrades. Not too long ago, Argentina has taken curiosity in cyber warfare and drone programs. If talks progress, Argentina would possibly discover Indian weapons – presumably BrahMos missiles or defence electronics.
Brazil – The Huge Participant in Latin America
Brazil is South America’s strongest navy energy. Its stock is trendy and various. The air pressure flies Embraer’s Tremendous Tucano fighter. Rocket launch programs like ASTROS II increase its land forces. The navy has French-designed Scorpene submarines. It’s now constructing a nuclear-powered submarine.
It already shares defence ties with India. Modi’s go to could take them additional. Akash missiles, anti-drone tech and joint manufacturing offers may very well be on the desk.
Namibia – Small Pressure, Rising Curiosity
Namibia has a small navy. Most of its firepower comes from mild weapons, primarily assault rifles and APCs. Outdated Soviet-era tanks just like the T-55 are nonetheless in service. China has equipped just a few naval patrol boats.
Not too long ago, Namibia has proven curiosity in drones and distant surveillance programs. India already has a nuclear cooperation cope with Namibia.
Modi’s go to could spark new talks – maybe round defence exports or coaching exchanges.
This five-nation tour covers extra than simply diplomacy. It is usually a quiet exploration of India’s increasing defence footprint. From West Africa to Latin America, New Delhi is looking new companions, new patrons and new grounds for strategic depth.