India Set to Finalize $450 Million BrahMos Missile Deal with Indonesia
India is on the verge of concluding a $450 million agreement to export BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Indonesia, positioning it as the second ASEAN nation, following the Philippines, to acquire this advanced weaponry. The deal has been under negotiation for an extended period, with significant discussions occurring during Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto’s visit to New Delhi in July 2020. Despite facing budgetary constraints, both nations have made substantial progress toward finalizing the contract.
The BrahMos missile, developed jointly by India and Russia, boasts a range of 290 kilometers and is renowned for its precision strike capabilities. India’s initiative to export this missile system aligns with its broader strategy to strengthen defense ties with ASEAN countries amid escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly concerning China’s assertive actions. In January 2022, India secured a $375 million contract to supply anti-ship coastal missile batteries to the Philippines, marking its first export of the BrahMos system.
Beyond the BrahMos missiles, India is actively promoting the sale of its indigenous Akash air defense missile systems to nations such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The Akash system is capable of intercepting hostile aircraft, helicopters, drones, and subsonic cruise missiles within a 25-kilometer range, enhancing the defensive capabilities of these countries.
These defense export endeavors not only bolster India’s defense manufacturing sector but also contribute to regional security by empowering partner nations with advanced military technology. As discussions advance, the potential finalization of the BrahMos deal with Indonesia signifies a pivotal step in India’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships in Southeast Asia.
