India’s Defence Export Strategy – BrahMos Missile Initiative

India is increasingly focusing on defence exports, particularly through the BrahMos missile programme. This initiative aligns with the nation’s goal of achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing, known as “Atma Nirbharta”. Recent contracts with countries like the Philippines and Vietnam highlight India’s growing role as player in the global arms market.

Overview of BrahMos Missile

BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile developed through a collaboration between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya. It is named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers. The missile boasts impressive speed, reaching Mach 2.8 to 3.0. It can carry a warhead weighing 300 kg and is capable of being launched from land, sea, and air platforms.

Historical Development

The BrahMos project began in February 1998 when Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and NV Mikhailov signed an agreement in Moscow. This led to the creation of BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture where India holds a 50.5% stake. The first successful launch occurred on June 12, 2001. Since then, BrahMos has become a mainstay of India’s strategic defence capabilities.

Recent Export Contracts

India’s first international sale of BrahMos missiles occurred in 2022, with a $375 million contract to the Philippines. This deal marked milestone in India’s defence exports. The Philippines views BrahMos as a critical asset for modernising its armed forces. The first batch was delivered in April 2024.

Future Prospects with Vietnam

India is in advanced negotiations with Vietnam for a $700 million deal involving the BrahMos missile system. This potential contract could further enhance India’s position in the Southeast Asian defence market. Vietnam aims to modernise its military capabilities, and acquiring BrahMos would be step in that direction.

Interest from Other Nations

Several countries, including Indonesia and the UAE, have expressed interest in acquiring BrahMos missiles. Discussions with Indonesia are ongoing, and the upcoming visit of President Prabowo Subianto to India may facilitate further negotiations. The UAE has also shown interest, reflecting India’s expanding defence ties with the Gulf region.

Domestic Deployment

The BrahMos missile system is actively used by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Indian Army first inducted it in 2007, making it the first military globally to operate a supersonic cruise missile regiment. The Indian Navy has equipped various vessels with BrahMos, enhancing its operational capabilities.

Geopolitical Implications

The BrahMos missile programme is expected to enhance India’s geopolitical influence, similar to the impact of the Bayraktar drones for Turkiye. By exporting advanced military technology, India can strengthen its defence partnerships and assert its role as a responsible global player.

Questions for UPSC –

1. Critically discuss the significance of the BrahMos missile in India’s defence strategy.
2. Examine the role of joint ventures in enhancing India’s defence capabilities.
3. Estimate the impact of defence exports on India’s geopolitical standing in Southeast Asia.
4. Analyse the challenges faced by India in achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the significance of the BrahMos missile in India’s defence strategy.

1. Enhances India’s deterrence capabilities against regional adversaries.
2. Supports the “Atma Nirbharta” initiative by promoting indigenous technology.
3. Facilitates strategic partnerships through defence exports, strengthening alliances.
4. Demonstrates India’s technological prowess and military innovation on a global scale.
5. Provides a versatile platform with land, sea, and air-launch capabilities for varied operational scenarios.

2. Examine the role of joint ventures in enhancing India’s defence capabilities.

1. Facilitates technology transfer and access to advanced military technologies.
2. Promotes collaboration between Indian and foreign defence industries, leveraging strengths.
3. Enhances production capacities and efficiency through shared resources and expertise.
4. Enables cost-sharing in research and development, reducing financial burdens.
5. Strengthens India’s position in the global arms market through strategic partnerships.

3. Estimate the impact of defence exports on India’s geopolitical standing in Southeast Asia.

1. Increases India’s influence as a key player in regional security dynamics.
2. Strengthens bilateral ties with nations like the Philippines and Vietnam through defence collaboration.
3. Enhances India’s image as a responsible arms supplier committed to regional stability.
4. Facilitates strategic alliances that counterbalance the influence of other powers in the region.
5. Promotes regional military modernization, aligning with India’s strategic interests.

4. Analyse the challenges faced by India in achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

1. Dependence on foreign technology and components for advanced systems hampers self-sufficiency.
2. Limited private sector participation and investment in defence manufacturing restricts innovation.
3. Regulatory hurdles and bureaucratic delays slow down production and procurement processes.
4. Need for skilled workforce and R&D infrastructure to support indigenous production.
5. Global competition and geopolitical tensions complicate access to international markets and partnerships.