The inaugural shipment of a contracted BrahMos missile from India to the Philippines is scheduled to arrive in the Southeast Asian nation on Friday, April 19. This marks a significant milestone in the realm of defense exports, showcasing India’s progress in manufacturing and global cooperation.
Originating from Nagpur, India, the BrahMos missile, renowned as the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile, is being transported aboard an Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft. Joining this journey are three civilian freight liners carrying supplementary components and support systems crucial for the missile’s deployment.
The destination for this high-tech weaponry is the Philippine Marine Corps’ coastal defense regiment, where it is expected to bolster the nation’s defense capabilities significantly. This initiative stems from a $375 million agreement inked in January 2022 between BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd and the Philippine Marine Corps, laying the groundwork for this momentous export event.
Collaboratively developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, the BrahMos missile reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance and indigenous defense manufacturing. An impressive 85 percent of its components are now produced within India, showcasing the nation’s strides toward self-sufficiency in defense technologies.
This achievement also serves as a testament to India’s growing influence as a defense exporter on the global stage. With defense exports hitting Rs 21,083 crore (approximately US$ 2.63 billion) in FY 2023-24, marking an impressive 32.5 percent growth from the previous year, India has firmly established itself as a major player in the international defense market.
Beyond technological progress and manufacturing capabilities, this milestone underscores India’s strategic partnerships and diplomatic endeavors. The successful export of the BrahMos missile not only strengthens the ties between India and the Philippines but also showcases India’s emerging role as a key defense exporter in the region, solidifying its position as a reliable and innovative partner in the global defense landscape.