In a significant development aimed at bolstering India’s naval capabilities, the Cabinet Committee on Security has greenlit the acquisition of over 200 BrahMos extended-range supersonic cruise missiles for deployment on Indian Navy warships. The deal, valued at approximately Rs 19,000 crore, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s maritime defense capabilities.
Top government sources revealed that the decision was made during a meeting held on Wednesday evening, signaling a major milestone in India’s defense procurement efforts. The contract for the acquisition is slated to be finalized in the first week of March, with BrahMos Aerospace and the Ministry of Defence set to ink the deal.
The BrahMos missile, renowned for its precision and versatility, serves as a cornerstone of the Indian Navy’s arsenal, facilitating anti-ship and attack operations with unparalleled effectiveness. Produced by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India and Russia, the supersonic cruise missiles can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or land platforms, providing the navy with a formidable offensive capability.
Notably, BrahMos Aerospace has made significant strides in indigenizing the production of the BrahMos missile, with efforts underway to further enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities. The successful indigenization efforts have positioned India as a leading exporter of defense equipment, with the Philippines set to become the first international customer of the BrahMos missile system.
Atul Rane, Chairman of BrahMos Aerospace, expressed optimism about achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious export target of USD 5 billion by 2025. With the first export deal valued at 375 million dollars with the Philippines, BrahMos Aerospace aims to capitalize on growing global demand for advanced defense systems.
The successful export of the BrahMos missile system is expected to pave the way for further international collaborations and opportunities for Indian defense industry, including the promotion of other indigenous weapon systems such as the Akash missile and ATAGS howitzers. The Indian defense industry is actively working to improve hardware quality and competitiveness to tap into lucrative export markets.
Moreover, Indian defense systems are being showcased on the global stage, with public sector units establishing offices in prospective markets to facilitate sales and support. This concerted effort reflects India’s commitment to becoming a key player in the global defense industry, while simultaneously strengthening its defense capabilities and fostering strategic partnerships with friendly nations.
