India delivers first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Philippines
| 2024-04-20
Representative image.
21 Philippine Navy personnel underwent rigorous training, focusing on the missile system’s operation and maintenance
India has delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in India's defence export history. This follows a USD 375 million agreement signed over two years ago, which is poised to enhance the defence capabilities of the Southeast Asian nation significantly.
The deal, inked in January 2022, represents India’s first substantial defence export order. Under this agreement, the Philippines has acquired three missile batteries equipped with the advanced BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system.
This strategic defence system was transported to the Philippines on Friday (April 19, 2024) using the Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the development during a public meeting in Madhya Pradesh. "Now we are also exporting BrahMos missiles. The first batch of this missile is going to the Philippines today. I congratulate all my countrymen on this," he said.
Comprehensive Training and Support
A crucial component of the agreement included extensive training and operational support. In preparation for the integration of the BrahMos system into their military, 21 Philippine Navy personnel underwent rigorous training in February 2023, focusing on the missile system’s operation and maintenance. This program was part of a broader integrated logistics support package that ensures the sustainability and effectiveness of the defence systems provided.
The BrahMos missile is a product of BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya.
Named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers of India and Russia respectively, the missile is noted for its exceptional speed and precision. Capable of reaching speeds of 2.8 Mach—nearly three times the speed of sound—it can strike targets up to a range of 290 kilometres. This range has recently been extended to 500 kilometres thanks to technological enhancements facilitated by India's membership in the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) since 2016.
The delivery of these missiles represents a deepening of strategic ties between India and the Philippines. This move comes at a crucial time when there is growing concern over regional security, particularly with China’s increased military assertiveness in the South China Sea. By acquiring such advanced missile technology, the Philippines is significantly bolstering its defence posture in a region fraught with geopolitical tensions.
Moreover, the successful delivery of the BrahMos missiles enhances India's profile as a reliable supplier of advanced military technology on the international stage. It underscores India's ability to participate actively in the strategic security frameworks of the region, contributing to regional stability and security.
The successful deployment of the BrahMos system opens the door to further exports to other nations. Several countries in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia, have expressed interest in the BrahMos system, demonstrating the missile's appeal as a potent strategic asset.
The deal, inked in January 2022, represents India’s first substantial defence export order. Under this agreement, the Philippines has acquired three missile batteries equipped with the advanced BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system.
This strategic defence system was transported to the Philippines on Friday (April 19, 2024) using the Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the development during a public meeting in Madhya Pradesh. "Now we are also exporting BrahMos missiles. The first batch of this missile is going to the Philippines today. I congratulate all my countrymen on this," he said.
Comprehensive Training and Support
A crucial component of the agreement included extensive training and operational support. In preparation for the integration of the BrahMos system into their military, 21 Philippine Navy personnel underwent rigorous training in February 2023, focusing on the missile system’s operation and maintenance. This program was part of a broader integrated logistics support package that ensures the sustainability and effectiveness of the defence systems provided.
The BrahMos missile is a product of BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya.
Named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers of India and Russia respectively, the missile is noted for its exceptional speed and precision. Capable of reaching speeds of 2.8 Mach—nearly three times the speed of sound—it can strike targets up to a range of 290 kilometres. This range has recently been extended to 500 kilometres thanks to technological enhancements facilitated by India's membership in the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) since 2016.
The delivery of these missiles represents a deepening of strategic ties between India and the Philippines. This move comes at a crucial time when there is growing concern over regional security, particularly with China’s increased military assertiveness in the South China Sea. By acquiring such advanced missile technology, the Philippines is significantly bolstering its defence posture in a region fraught with geopolitical tensions.
Moreover, the successful delivery of the BrahMos missiles enhances India's profile as a reliable supplier of advanced military technology on the international stage. It underscores India's ability to participate actively in the strategic security frameworks of the region, contributing to regional stability and security.
The successful deployment of the BrahMos system opens the door to further exports to other nations. Several countries in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia, have expressed interest in the BrahMos system, demonstrating the missile's appeal as a potent strategic asset.
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