The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is a versatile weapon system developed jointly by India and Russia. It can be launched from land, sea, or air platforms and played a key role in India’s Operation Sindoor, striking strategic targets deep inside Pakistan. This success has increased international demand for the missile system.
What is BrahMos?
BrahMos is a long-range supersonic cruise missile named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers. It was developed by India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPOM as a joint venture, with India holding a slight majority stake. The missile has three versions: air-launched, land-based, and submarine-launched. Its first successful test was in 2001 off Odisha’s coast.
How Does BrahMos Work?
The missile uses a two-stage propulsion system. Initially, a solid booster engine propels it to supersonic speeds before detaching. Then, a liquid ramjet engine sustains speeds close to Mach 3 during its cruise phase. The missile employs stealth technology, advanced guidance systems, and “fire-and-forget” capabilities, flying at altitudes up to 15 km and descending to just 10 meters near the target for precision strikes. Its high kinetic energy impact gives it strong destructive power.
Global Interest and Defence Deals
India has started exporting BrahMos missiles, with the Philippines receiving a second batch this year as part of a $375 million deal signed in 2022. Several countries have shown interest in acquiring the system:
- Vietnam is close to finalizing a $700 million deal for BrahMos to boost maritime defence.
- Malaysia is considering BrahMos for its fighter jets and warships.
- Thailand, Singapore, and Brunei are in talks with India about the missile.
- Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Venezuela have shown interest in naval and coastal defence variants.
- Middle Eastern nations like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Oman are also negotiating deals.
- South Africa and Bulgaria are exploring procurement options.
BrahMos in Operation Sindoor
Reports suggest BrahMos was used effectively in India’s Operation Sindoor, targeting Nur Khan and other airbases in Pakistan. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the missile’s impact, urging critics to recognize its power based on Pakistan’s experience.
BrahMos stands as a symbol of India’s growing defence capabilities, showcasing technological advancement and increasing global partnerships. The missile’s success in recent military operations and growing international demand underline its strategic importance in modern warfare.
