India’s Cabinet Committee on Security Clears $2.3B Navy Deal for BrahMos Missiles

India’s Cabinet Committee on Security has given the green light for the acquisition of over 200 BrahMos extended-range supersonic cruise missiles at a cost of INR 19,000 crore ($2.3 billion).

This decision, finalized during a meeting on February 21, will lead to the signing of a contract in early March between BrahMos Aerospace and the Ministry of Defence.

The BrahMos missile, a collaborative effort between India and Russia, serves as a primary tool for anti-ship and attack operations on Indian Navy warships. BrahMos, known as the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile, is deployable from submarines, ships, aircraft, or land platforms. Regularly utilized in live-fire exercises, the BrahMos Aerospace has reported increased indigenization of various components of the missile system, including its seeker.

BrahMos missile is on the brink of being shipped to the Philippines, its first international customer. Several countries in the Southeast Asian region, including Indonesia, have shown interest in procuring the missile system. Argentina is also said to be eyeing the missile

Atul Rane, the head of BrahMos Aerospace, has outlined the company's ambition to achieve a $5 billion export target set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following the initial export deal with the Philippines, valued at $375 million, BrahMos Aerospace aims to reach the target by 2025.