India's $700 Million BrahMos Deal With Vietnam To Boost Defence Export

NEW DELHI: The BrahMos missile system, a product of the landmark collaboration between India and Russia, stands as a testament to precision and strength in the Indo-Pacific region. With Vietnam on the brink of finalizing a USD 700 million deal to acquire the supersonic cruise missile, the partnership between India and Vietnam is set to enter a new phase.

The BrahMos missile, named after India’s Brahmaputra River and Russia’s Moskva River, was developed by BrahMos Aerospace, established in 1998. Renowned for its exceptional precision, the missile boasts a top speed of Mach 3 and a range of 300 kilometers, extendable in advanced variants. Its versatility is another standout feature, enabling launches from land, sea, or air platforms.

In 2017, the BrahMos missile showcased its operational prowess by striking a moving target at sea with pinpoint accuracy during a test conducted from a ground-based launcher in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This achievement cemented its reputation as one of the most precise cruise missiles globally.

The continued success and versatility of the BrahMos missile have established it as a cornerstone of India’s defense exports, representing both advanced military capability and the strength of strategic international alliances.

Vietnam’s interest in the BrahMos missile system has been longstanding, reflecting the strong ties between the two nations, built on mutual respect and shared security priorities. Following the Philippines' 2022 acquisition of BrahMos through a $375 million deal, Vietnam is now poised to bolster its maritime defense with a reported $700 million agreement, further solidifying its commitment to advanced military capabilities.

Amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, the BrahMos missile offers Vietnam a significant strategic edge, strengthening its defense capabilities in the region.

The influence of the BrahMos missile extends far beyond defense, symbolizing India’s resolve to counter regional threats while fostering stronger ties with key Southeast Asian partners. As Vietnam moves closer to becoming the second international operator of BrahMos, other nations, including Indonesia, are reportedly considering its acquisition, highlighting its growing appeal on the global stage.

This deal underscores India’s emergence as a dependable defense exporter. Once heavily reliant on imports, India is now carving a niche in the global arms market, driven by the success of its Make in India initiative and its focus on indigenously developed defense technologies.

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