The inaugural section of our article details a recent development in defence technology procurement: the Philippines’ agreement to purchase a shore-based variant of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from BrahMos Aerospace Private Ltd. This marks the first export order for the missile, a joint venture of India and Russia. The Philippines seeks to incorporate this missile into their existing arsenal amidst rising tension with China over disputed islands in the South China Sea.
The Global Interest in the BrahMos Missile
Numerous countries have indicated an interest in procuring the BrahMos missile. Discussions with nations such as Indonesia and Thailand have progressed significantly. This interest can be attributed to the impressive features of the missile, a crucial aspect of which is its status as a multiplatform device that can be launched from land, air, or sea.
Key Features of the BrahMos Missile
The BrahMos Missile, named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers, is a product of collaboration between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and NPOM of Russia. This two-stage missile has a solid propellant engine at the primary stage and a liquid ramjet at the secondary stage. Equipped with pinpoint accuracy, the missile operates optimally both day and night, regardless of weather conditions. Following its launch, it operates on the ‘Fire and Forget’ principle, thus eliminating the need for further guidance.
Advanced Version of the BrahMos and its Capabilities
Recently, BrahMos released its advanced version – an extended-range sea-to-sea variant. India’s admittance to the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) club in June 2016 allowed plans for extending the missile’s range to 450 km, and later to 600km. Initially, the BrahMos missile was developed with a range of 290 km only.
Specifications about the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)
The MTCR is a voluntary partnership of 35 nations, established to prevent the proliferation of missile and unmanned aerial vehicle technology capable of carrying payloads greater than 500 kg for distances exceeding 300 km. Member nations are collectively committed to limiting the transfer of such critical technologies. Decisions within this non-treaty association are taken by consensus.
Overview of India’s Defence Exports
Defence exports are pivotal to the Indian government’s ambition to achieve self-sufficiency in defence production. Over 30 Indian defence companies have exported various arms and equipment, from personal protective items to advanced light helicopters and radar systems, to many countries worldwide. Despite these achievements, India’s defence exports still lag behind with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) ranking India at number 23 on the list of major arms exporters for 2015-2019.
Challenges and Potential Solutions to India’s Defence Exports Performance
A significant obstacle hindering India’s defence exports is the absence of a dedicated agency in the Ministry of Defense to facilitate exports. Currently, exports are handled individually by corporations like BrahMos or public defence shipyards and undertakings. In light of this, a KPMG report titled ‘Defence Exports: Untapped Potential’ recommends the establishment of a dedicated ‘defence export help desk’.
The Strategic Advantage of Successful Defence Exports
Successful defence exports, particularly of big-ticket military systems to neighbouring countries, could provide both an economic boost and a strategic counter against China’s influence as a major provider of defence products in Asia. This approach could also potentially enhance India’s standing in the global defence export market.
