India’s BrahMos Missile Diplomacy Strengthens Ties in Southeast Asia

India has taken a major stride in its defence export journey with the confirmation that a deal to supply the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system to Vietnam has already been signed. A parallel agreement with Indonesia is advancing rapidly and is now in its final stages. This development highlights India’s growing role as a reliable defence partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh shared this update on May 30, 2026, while participating in the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. In response to questions about potential buyers, he stated that the Vietnam deal had been concluded, though not yet publicly announced, while discussions with Indonesia were nearing completion.

Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles were used extensively during Operation Sindoor. (File photo) | India Today

Announcement at the Shangri-La Dialogue

Speaking on the sidelines of the prestigious security forum, Singh emphasised India’s commitment to sharing advanced technologies with trusted partners. He described ASEAN nations as “friendly foreign countries” with whom India is willing to collaborate closely on defence matters. The announcement reflects the steady progress India has made in building strategic relationships across Southeast Asia through its Act East Policy.

The exact value and detailed terms of the Vietnam and Indonesia contracts have not been officially disclosed. However, reports suggest the Vietnam agreement could be valued at approximately ₹6,000 crore (around $629 million), including training and logistical support.

Philippines as the Pioneer Buyer

The Philippines paved the way as the first international customer for the BrahMos system. In 2022, it signed a contract worth nearly $375 million for shore-based anti-ship variants. Deliveries have since commenced, significantly enhancing the country’s coastal defence capabilities in a strategically sensitive maritime environment.

These exports demonstrate the growing international appeal of the BrahMos, a joint Indo-Russian venture known for its supersonic speed of Mach 3, precision guidance, and multi-platform launch capabilities ranging up to 400 km.

Strategic Importance in the Indo-Pacific

The deals with Vietnam and Indonesia come at a time when several Southeast Asian countries are seeking to strengthen their maritime defences amid complex regional security challenges. Both nations have vital interests in maintaining stability and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. The acquisition of BrahMos is expected to bolster their area-denial and deterrence capabilities against potential threats.

India views these partnerships as part of a broader effort to promote cooperative security in the Indo-Pacific. By offering advanced systems like BrahMos, India is not only expanding its defence exports but also contributing to a more balanced and stable regional architecture based on mutual trust and shared interests.

India’s Defence Export Momentum

Over the past decade, India has undertaken comprehensive reforms to boost its defence manufacturing sector. These include greater private sector participation, support for startups, and enhanced focus on indigenous design and development under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. As a result, India’s defence exports reached a record high of ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26.

Government-owned companies continue to lead production, accounting for around 72 percent of output, with several Indian firms now ranking among the world’s top arms producers. The BrahMos missile stands out as a flagship product that showcases India’s technological capabilities and its readiness to engage in responsible defence cooperation with like-minded nations.

The MGMM Outlook 

India’s successful export of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system to Vietnam, along with the nearing completion of a similar agreement with Indonesia, reflects the country's growing stature as a trusted defence partner in the Indo-Pacific. These developments underscore the effectiveness of India’s Act East Policy and its commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships across Southeast Asia. By sharing advanced defence technology with friendly nations, India is expanding its influence through cooperation, mutual trust, and a shared vision for regional stability.

The BrahMos missile has emerged as a symbol of India’s technological advancement and defence manufacturing capabilities. As Southeast Asian nations seek to enhance their maritime security amid evolving regional challenges, India’s defence exports are contributing to a more balanced security environment. The success of BrahMos exports, following the Philippines’ acquisition of the system, highlights the growing global confidence in Indian-made defence equipment and showcases the progress achieved under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Rising defence exports not only strengthen India's economic prospects but also reinforce its role as a responsible stakeholder in maintaining peace and security throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, India Today, The Hindu BusinessLine)