Why India’s missile deals in Central Asia matter to Russia and China

India has recently sold its Akash air-defence missile systems to Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, marking its entry into Central Asia's defence market. The Akash is a short-range surface-to-air missile system designed to counter multiple aerial threats simultaneously. It is known for its ability to function effectively in limited electronic environments, making it particularly valuable for the Central Asian region with its history of political instability and conflict.

The system's success in other parts of the world, combined with its competitive pricing, has made it an attractive option for these nations seeking to diversify their defence suppliers away from traditional Russian and Chinese sources. For Russia, this development represents an opportunity for the country to expand its market presence in the region, as India's entry could also indicate a shift away from traditional Russian dominance in the region.

Meanwhile, China has been stepping up its military sales efforts in the Central Asian region, particularly in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, where it has established a significant footprint. However, the Akash's success in Tajikistan and Turkmenistan suggests that India may be able to carve out a space for itself among Central Asian nations seeking reliable defence equipment at a reasonable cost.