NEW DELHI: India has signed a deal to export BrahMos missiles worth approximately Rs. 3,800 crore (USD 450 million) to Indonesia. This agreement highlights India’s growing capability in defence manufacturing, including its expertise in building aircraft carriers domestically.

This deal with Indonesia comes after a similar agreement with the Philippines, further strengthening India’s position as a key player in the global defence export market. The BrahMos missile, known for its supersonic speed and precision, is developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a collaboration between India and Russia. The export will boost Indonesia’s military strength and deepen defence ties between the two nations.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was a special guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations, visited BrahMos Aerospace headquarters on January 26. He was joined by a high-level team, including Indonesian Navy Chief Admiral Muhammad Ali. During the visit, they reviewed the advanced features of the BrahMos missile system, including its high speed, extended range, and ability to launch from land, air, and sea platforms.

BrahMos Aerospace shared details of the visit on social media, highlighting discussions on enhancing defence cooperation. The company stated, “A high-level delegation led by Admiral Muhammad Ali, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, visited BrahMos Aerospace and met Dr. Jaitirth R Joshi and senior officials. The delegation was briefed on the supersonic BrahMos weapon system and its advanced capabilities.”

The BrahMos missile is recognized for its incredible speed of Mach 2.8, i.e., nearly 3 times the speed of sound, and its ability to hit targets up to 290 kilo-meter, with an upgraded version extending the range to 500 km.

This is the second international export of BrahMos missiles. The first was to the Philippines in January 2022, when they signed a deal worth USD 375 million to acquire BrahMos missile batteries for their armed forces.

Strengthening Defence Ties with Indonesia

President Subianto’s visit highlights the deepening defence and strategic relationship between India and Indonesia. Along with the missile agreement, the two nations have also committed to enhancing collaboration in trade, defence production, and maritime security.

In a bid to strengthen india's Defense Partnership, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized Indonesia’s crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. 

India is also preparing to deliver the first batch of BrahMos missiles and launchers to the Philippines by April 2024, marking a significant milestone in India’s defence exports.

Meanwhile, during recent meetings, senior officials from Indonesia expressed interest in exploring cooperation on aircraft carrier construction, further expanding bilateral defence ties.