India has strengthened its position in the global defence export market by securing a BrahMos missile supply agreement with Vietnam while simultaneously moving closer to finalising a similar deal with Indonesia. The developments highlight India’s growing role as a defence manufacturing and export hub, particularly in the strategically important Southeast Asian region.
Vietnam Becomes Latest BrahMos Customer
India has confirmed that Vietnam has signed an agreement for the acquisition of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system. Although the details of the contract have not yet been officially announced, reports indicate that the deal could be valued at approximately ₹6,000 crore, including associated training, maintenance, and logistical support.
The agreement represents a significant milestone in defence cooperation between India and Vietnam, further deepening strategic ties between the two nations.
The confirmation came from India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh during discussions at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, where he highlighted India’s growing engagement with ASEAN countries in the defence sector.
Indonesia Deal Approaches Final Stage
Alongside the Vietnam agreement, negotiations with Indonesia have reportedly reached an advanced stage. Discussions regarding the procurement of the BrahMos missile system are nearing completion, indicating that another major export order could soon be added to India’s defence portfolio.
Indonesia had previously announced progress in talks with India regarding the missile system, and the latest developments suggest that a formal agreement may be concluded in the near future.
A successful deal with Indonesia would further strengthen India’s defence partnerships across Southeast Asia and expand the international footprint of the BrahMos programme.
Rising Global Interest in BrahMos
The BrahMos missile has emerged as one of India’s most successful defence export products. Developed jointly by India and Russia, the missile is known for its high speed, precision strike capability, and versatility across land, sea, and air platforms.
The Philippines became the first international customer for the BrahMos system in 2022 after signing a contract worth approximately $375 million.
The growing interest from Vietnam and Indonesia reflects increasing confidence in India’s indigenous defence technologies and manufacturing capabilities.
India’s Defence Manufacturing Push
India has been actively promoting domestic defence production under its broader strategy of strengthening self-reliance and expanding exports. Over the past decade, several reforms have been introduced to encourage private-sector participation, support defence startups, and enhance indigenous design and manufacturing capabilities.
According to government officials, state-owned enterprises currently contribute around 72% of India’s defence production, while private companies account for the remaining share. The country has also developed significant expertise in missile systems, combat aircraft, armoured vehicles, and naval technologies.
The government continues to focus on building trusted defence partnerships, secure supply chains, and collaborative manufacturing ecosystems with friendly nations.
Strategic Importance for ASEAN Relations
India views ASEAN countries as key strategic partners and has increasingly focused on strengthening defence and security cooperation within the region. The expansion of BrahMos exports supports not only India’s economic and industrial objectives but also its broader diplomatic and strategic engagement across the Indo-Pacific.
As regional nations seek to modernise their defence capabilities amid evolving security dynamics, Indian-made systems are gaining visibility as reliable and competitive alternatives in the global defence market.
Conclusion
The signing of the BrahMos missile agreement with Vietnam and the near-finalisation of a similar deal with Indonesia mark important achievements for India’s defence export ambitions. These developments reinforce India’s growing stature as a supplier of advanced military technology while strengthening strategic partnerships across Southeast Asia. With rising international demand for indigenous defence systems, the BrahMos missile continues to play a central role in India’s expanding global defence presence.
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