India delivers first batch of supersonic BrahMos missile system to Philippines

The Indian Air Force sent its American-origin C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft with the missiles to the Philippines to deliver the weapon system to the Philippines’ Marine Corps.

NEW DELHI: In a significant boost to its defense export capabilities, India has successfully delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines. This delivery marks a key milestone in the defense relations between the two nations, following a $375 million deal signed in January 2022. The agreement facilitated government-to-government transactions concerning the BrahMos missile systems and set the stage for further defense collaborations.

Details of the Delivery

Under the terms of the 2022 agreement, BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between India and Russia, agreed to supply Manila with three export versions of the BrahMos missile system. This comprehensive deal also includes an integrated logistics support package and essential training for Filipino operators and maintainers.

The systems delivered include two missile launchers, a radar unit, and a command-and-control center, enabling the simultaneous launch of two missiles within ten seconds from various platforms such as submarines, ships, aircraft, or land-based systems.

Historic Moment for India’s Defense Export

The transfer was facilitated by an Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster jet, marking the first instance of India exporting the BrahMos missile. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a rally in Domah, highlighted this achievement, stating, “Now we are also exporting BrahMos missiles. The first batch of this missile is going to the Philippines today. I congratulate all the countrymen on this.”

🚀🤝 History made as India delivers BrahMos missiles to the Philippines! Watch as they're unloaded from a C-17 Globemaster and Indian officials celebrate with Philippine Marine Corps officers #BrahMos #Philippines #defenceexport #MakeInIndia pic.twitter.com/NB0Q0I9Yfi

— PuneNow (@itspunenow) April 19, 2024

Global Interest and Strategic Implications

The BrahMos missile, known for its high speed of 2.8 Mach—nearly three times the speed of sound—has garnered interest from several other nations, including Argentina. India’s decision to export these missiles aligns with its strategic goals to enhance defense cooperation, particularly with countries like the Philippines, amidst growing concerns over China’s military activities in the South China Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the fastest missile in India?

India’s fastest missile is the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which travels at a speed of Mach 2.8.

Is BrahMos Indian or Russian?

The BrahMos missile is a joint venture between India and Russia, combining the names of two rivers, the Brahmaputra of India and the Moskva of Russia.

Who built BrahMos?

BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture established in 1998 between India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia, is responsible for the development of the BrahMos missiles.

How strong is BrahMos?

The BrahMos missile is renowned for its precision and speed, traveling at nearly three times the speed of sound, making it one of the fastest cruise missiles currently in operation globally. Its capabilities include being launched from land, sea, sub-sea, and air against sea and land targets.

This delivery not only underscores the capabilities of the Indian defense industry but also enhances the operational strength of the Philippines’ military assets, contributing significantly to regional security dynamics.