Image credits - Hindustan Times
The Cabinet Committee on Security has greenlit a significant defense acquisition plan, approving the procurement of over 200 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles along with associated systems. This procurement, costing approximately ₹19,000 crore, aims to bolster the firepower of the Indian Navy, as revealed by officials familiar with the matter on Thursday.
The BrahMos missiles, renowned for their exceptional speed and versatility, will be integrated into Indian warships, offering a substantial enhancement to the Navy’s operational capabilities. The acquisition will encompass a mix of BrahMos variants, including those capable of striking targets at distances of up to 290 km, as well as extended-range versions boasting a remarkable reach of nearly 500 km.
Notably, the BrahMos missile stands out as the world’s fastest cruise missile, boasting a staggering speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times the speed of sound. Its adaptability across land, air, and sea platforms underscores its versatility, with all three variants currently deployed across the Indian armed forces.
Furthermore, India’s defense export endeavors are gaining momentum, with plans underway to deliver BrahMos missiles to the Philippines in March. This marks a significant milestone as it signifies India’s first export order for the BrahMos missile, developed jointly with Russia. The deal, valued at almost $375 million, was inked two years ago, illustrating India’s burgeoning presence in the global defense market.
India’s aspirations for defense exports are ambitious, with a target set at ₹35,000 crore by the fiscal year 2024-25. Recent successes, such as Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited securing an export order worth $155.5 million for artillery guns bound for Armenia, underscore India’s growing prowess in defense manufacturing. Additionally, India’s collaboration with Armenia for the Pinaka rocket system further amplifies its standing as a reliable defense partner.
Beyond traditional markets, countries across South America, Africa, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia are expressing keen interest in India’s defense offerings. The Indian Air Force, under the leadership of Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, is advocating for the development of a compact version of the BrahMos missile tailored for fighter jets. This initiative aims to equip aircraft like the MiG-29, Mirage 2000, and the indigenous Tejas with enhanced strike capabilities.
Looking ahead, India is poised to embark on the development of an extended-range BrahMos missile, capable of striking targets at distances exceeding 800 km. This endeavor underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its strategic capabilities, particularly in the maritime domain.
The recent commissioning of INS Imphal, the latest guided missile destroyer, marked a milestone for the Indian Navy. Notably, INS Imphal became the first Indian warship to successfully launch the BrahMos missile, further solidifying India’s position as a maritime power in the Indian Ocean region.
Thus, India’s approval of the BrahMos missile acquisition represents an essential step in enhancing its naval prowess and consolidating its position as a key player in the global defense arena. With strategic partnerships flourishing and indigenous defense capabilities evolving, India’s trajectory as a defense exporter and innovator remains promising.
