Wednesday, November 23 2005 11:05 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Hyderabad: The Government has agreed in principle to allow exports of missiles but clearances to which country they can be exported is yet to come, said Dr. Prahalada Chief Controller, Research and Development, Director Defence Reserach and Development Laboratories (DRDL).

Speaking to the media on his visit to Hyderabad in connection with the conference on High energy materials here last week, Dr.Prahalada said permission has been given for exports of Akash, Trishul, Naag, Brahmos class of missiles which have been identified for exports.

He said South Africa and countries in the Middle East and South East have shown interest in the purchase of these missiles.

The flight test will be done for demonstration in December and once the flight caps are completed, DRD will market the same, he said.

At least, thousand missiles are being looked at for export which would mean a business of Rs 4000 crores roughly. Besides earning foreign exchange, it would also mean better job opportunities for industries and employment opportunities for unemployed.

With exports quality will improve leading to better global competitiveness as well, he said. A system is likely to be set up to develop the business of missiles for which DRDL wants to invest, Prahalada said.

Although there are several countries dealing in missiles, India should be able to capture some market as the cost structure for Indian missiles is competitive.