The government has agreed, in principle, to allow exports of missiles but clearances to which country they can be exported is still unknown, said Dr Prahalada, Chief Controller, Reserach and Development and Director Defence Reserach and Development Laboratories.

Speaking to the media on a visit to a conference in Hyderabad last week, Dr Prahalada said permission has been given for exports of Akash, Trishul, Naag, Brahmos class of missiles. Countries in South Africa and Middle East have been interested in purchasing these, he said.

The flight tests will on demonstration in December and once the flight caps are completed, DRDL will market the same, he added.

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At least a 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 emploment opportunities in the industry. The pressures of global competitiveness will also boost quality, Dr Prahlada said.

A system is likely to be set up to develop the business of missiles, in which DRDL will invest, he said. Dr Prahlada was confident that though there are several countries dealing in missiles, India will be able to capture some market since the cost structure for its missiles is competitive.