India is waiting for a formal no-objection certificate (NOC) from Russia to complete long-pending BrahMos missile export deals with Indonesia and Vietnam, according to sources familiar with the matter. Negotiations with both Southeast Asian countries are reportedly in their final stages, with operational requirements and pricing already agreed upon. Regulatory approval from Moscow remains the last major step before contracts can be signed.
The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is produced by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India and Russia. Because the missile uses certain Russian-origin technologies, exports to third countries require Moscow’s concurrence via a no-objection certificate. This step has become crucial as India seeks to expand its defence exports in the Indo-Pacific region.
Indonesia and Vietnam have engaged in detailed talks with India for BrahMos systems, driven by their increasing focus on maritime deterrence and coastal defence. Sources indicate discussions on missile variants, deployment concepts, training packages, and long-term support have largely concluded. Pricing has also reportedly been settled to mutual satisfaction, reflecting India’s competitive positioning in the global missile market.
For Vietnam, the BrahMos is seen as a capability to strengthen its sea-denial posture in the South China Sea, while Indonesia’s interest is tied to safeguarding its archipelagic waters and critical sea lanes. The missile’s supersonic speed, precision, and proven performance have been key factors in both countries’ interest.
India has already exported the BrahMos to the Philippines, demonstrating its ability to deliver complex missile systems on schedule and provide comprehensive training and logistical support. Finalizing deals with Indonesia and Vietnam would further reinforce India’s credibility as a supplier of advanced strike weapons and strengthen strategic ties with key regional partners.
Sources suggest that once the Russian NOC is received, India is ready to formalize agreements quickly. The clearance process is expected to be a matter of timing rather than intent, given Russia’s continued partnership in the BrahMos programme and its strategic interest in maintaining defence cooperation with India.
If concluded, these deals would mark a significant milestone in India’s defence export ambitions, positioning the BrahMos as a flagship product and highlighting New Delhi’s growing role as a security provider in the Indo-Pacific.
