BrahMos Aerospace is expanding the global footprint of India's supersonic cruise missile system, with the company securing export agreements with the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Company Chairman and Managing Director Jaiteerth R Joshi announced on Friday that talks with several other interested nations have reached an advanced stage.
Speaking to reporters in Hyderabad, Mr. Joshi stated that these ongoing discussions could translate into formal agreements once the Indian government grants the necessary clearances. While the Philippines was India’s first overseas customer, the addition of Vietnam and Indonesia marks significant milestones for the export programme. Potential buyers currently in contact with the company include the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Malaysia, and Brazil, according to reports.
The international interest follows the performance of BrahMos missiles during Operation Sindoor. Mr. Joshi credited non-destructive testing (NDT) for ensuring the reliability of these weapons, noting that some of the missiles deployed were manufactured 10 to 20 years ago. He explained that NDT techniques, which allow for the inspection of components without damaging their structural integrity, were essential in verifying that the systems remained operational despite their age.
Key facts
- The Philippines signed its first contract in January 2022, worth $374.96 million for three shore-based anti-ship missile batteries.
- Vietnam signed an agreement in May 2026, with estimates for the package ranging between $629 million and $700 million.
- Indonesia concluded an agreement in July 2026, with initial orders estimated at $200 million to $350 million.
- The Philippines is currently in advanced negotiations for a follow-up order potentially worth $700 million to $800 million.
- BrahMos is a two-stage cruise missile developed by India's DRDO and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyenia, capable of speeds around Mach 2.8.
Why it matters
The successful deployment of older missile systems during Operation Sindoor has provided a boost to the credibility of the BrahMos platform in the international market. By demonstrating that the hardware remains mission-ready after years of storage, the company has strengthened its position in ongoing negotiations with multiple countries seeking reliable defence solutions.
Background
BrahMos missiles operate using a solid-propellant booster for initial acceleration, followed by a liquid-fuel ramjet engine to sustain flight. Non-destructive testing methods, such as ultrasonic testing, X-ray imaging, and computed tomography, are used to detect internal voids, material defects, and structural weaknesses in defense hardware.
Source: Economic Times, Times of India
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