BrahMos missile drives India's defence export growth

The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has seen increased global interest following its performance during Operation Sindoor. Reports indicate the weapon's ability to evade Chinese-origin air defence systems played a role in prompting a ceasefire during the operation.

India has secured several significant defence deals involving the missile. This includes a $375-million agreement with the Philippines signed in 2022. Additionally, Vietnam has reportedly concluded a deal estimated at $629 million, and Indonesia has finalized an agreement valued between $200 million and $300 million.

The BrahMos project is a joint venture between India and Russia, originating from a 1997 initiative to develop a terrain-hugging cruise missile. Following technical evaluations in Russia, an inter-governmental agreement was signed in 1998 to establish BrahMos Aerospace.