India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has emerged as the country’s top defence export in 2024, with Indonesia and the Philippines finalizing major deals to strengthen maritime security. The missile, jointly developed by India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia, is in high demand across Southeast Asia due to its speed and precision.
Why the BrahMos Missile Stands Out
The BrahMos is the world’s fastest operational supersonic cruise missile, reaching nearly Mach 2.8—three times the speed of sound. Its fire-and-forget system, low-altitude flight, and multi-platform launch capability (land, sea, air, or submarine) make it a versatile choice for naval and coastal defence.
Proven in operations like Operation Sindoor, the missile has drawn interest from Vietnam, Malaysia, and South Korea, while the UAE and Egypt are evaluating it. Its combat reliability addresses critical security needs in contested waters such as the South China Sea.
BrahMos Missile: Technical Specifications
- Speed: Nearly Mach 2.8 (3x the speed of sound)
- Range: Up to 400 km (extended variants available)
- Launch platforms: Land, naval vessels, aircraft, and submarines
- Guidance: Fire-and-forget with pre-programmed waypoints
Indo-Pacific Security and Economic Impact
Southeast Asian nations, including Indonesia, are deploying BrahMos to protect strategic choke points like the Malacca Strait and safeguard Exclusive Economic Zones. The system offers a cost-effective deterrent against maritime threats without requiring large-scale naval expansions.
India’s defence exports surged to a record ₹38,424 crore in 2024, with a target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029. BrahMos deals strengthen long-term military partnerships through training and upgrades, reinforcing India’s role as a defence technology leader. Watch for further agreements as Indo-Pacific nations enhance anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) capabilities.
