Desert shield, Indian spear: Why the UAE is looking towards BrahMos and Akashteer

File photo: A BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akashteer integrated air-defence command-and-control system. The UAE is reportedly evaluating the Indian-developed systems as it seeks to strengthen its offensive and defensive capabilities amid evolving security challenges in West Asia. The reported interest of the United Arab Emirates in acquiring India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system and the Akashteer integrated air-defence command-and-control architecture reflects not only the growing confidence in Indian military technology but also the rapidly evolving security environment of West Asia. Over the past decade, the Gulf region has witnessed a transformation in the character of warfare. Ballistic missiles,…