India is edging closer to sealing high-value defence export agreements with Vietnam and Indonesia for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which would considerably strengthen New Delhi’s strategic ties with Southeast Asia. The combined contracts worth over ₹4,000 crore ($450 million) highlight India’s growing reputation as a reliable provider of modern military systems.
The BrahMos missile is a product of joint development between India and Russia, making Moscow’s clearance essential for exports to third countries. Russia has stated that it has no concerns about India supplying missiles to both Vietnam and Indonesia. This guarantee was given during recent discussions between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart, Andrei Belousov, and formal approval is now awaited.
Vietnam and Indonesia, like the Philippines, are facing increased security challenges as tensions in the South China Sea rise. The missile, which can reach speeds close to Mach 2.8 and has a range of around 450 kilometres, has been successfully deployed by the Indian military and integrated with fighter aircraft. These possible deals highlight India’s broader drive to increase defence exports while boosting regional security partnerships.
