Indian Navy Secures ₹19,000 Crore Deal for BrahMos Missiles in Major Cabinet Committee Approval

The Cabinet Committee on Security has granted approval for a significant naval deal, allocating ₹19,000 crore for the procurement of more than 200 extended-range BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for the Indian Navy's warships. This substantial deal was given the green light during a meeting on February 21, with the contract scheduled to be finalized in the first week of March between BrahMos Aerospace and the Ministry of Defence, according to reliable government sources.

The BrahMos missile serves as a primary weapon for the Indian Navy's anti-ship and attack operations, with regular deployment and firing on navy warships. BrahMos Aerospace, a collaborative venture between India and Russia, specializes in manufacturing supersonic cruise missiles deployable from submarines, ships, aircraft, or land platforms. The missile has undergone significant indigenization efforts by BrahMos Corporation, with ongoing initiatives to enhance indigenous components.

Notably, the BrahMos missile is poised for export to the Philippines, marking its inaugural venture into the global market. Several Southeast Asian nations have expressed keen interest in deploying this missile system in various capacities. Brahmos Aerospace, led by Atul Rane, is actively working towards achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi's $5 billion export target by 2025, following the initial deal with the Philippines valued at $375 million.

The joint venture has conducted successful test firings of the missile, incorporating a substantial level of indigenous content, including an indigenous seeker. This missile system's international sales are expected to create opportunities for other successful Indian weapon systems, such as the Akash, ATAGS howitzers, and additional equipment from the Indian defence industry.

The Indian defence sector is committed to enhancing hardware quality to compete globally, showcasing its systems abroad, and establishing offices in potential markets for sales and support by some public sector units.