NEW DELHI (Agencies): In a significant move, the Indian government has given the green light for the acquisition of 200 BrahMos extended-range supersonic cruise missiles. These cutting-edge weapons, co-developed by India and Russia, are set to enhance India’s naval capabilities.
The BrahMos missiles derive their name from two iconic rivers: the Brahmaputra in India and the Moskva in Russia. Originally designed with a range of 290 kilometers (180 miles), they have undergone upgrades to extend their reach to 450-500 kilometers.
The Indo-Russian joint venture, BrahMos Aerospace, produces these missiles with capabilities for land, air, sea, and submarines. India aims to export military hardware worth $5 billion by 2025, as set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2022, BrahMos secured a $375 million deal with the Philippines for high-capability missiles, with deliveries scheduled to begin in March.
At the World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia, BrahMos’ director of exports, Praveen Pathak, revealed an impressive order portfolio exceeding $7 billion. Saudi Arabia has expressed significant interest in procuring these missiles. Other potential buyers include Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
BrahMos missiles are widely used by India’s Navy and play a crucial role in maritime defense.
This acquisition underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities and fostering international partnerships. As sea patrols intensify, the BrahMos missiles stand as a formidable force in the region.