India's standing as an exporter of advanced defence systems has been significantly bolstered by a recent announcement from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Speaking at an event in Lucknow on October 19, the minister confirmed that BrahMos Aerospace has secured new export contracts worth approximately Rs 4,000 crore (about $455 million) with two undisclosed countries within the last year.
This development follows India's first-ever BrahMos export, a $375 million deal signed with the Philippines in 2022.
The surge in export interest is being linked to India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and the missile's recently demonstrated effectiveness.
Minister Singh highlighted the system's combat-proven performance during "Operation Sindoor," a precision strike in September 2025 that reportedly neutralized Pakistani assets.
This operation has reportedly drawn queries from over a dozen nations, validating the missile's capabilities and boosting its international reputation.
While the identities of the two new buyers remain confidential, speculation is high that Indonesia may be one of them. Reports from local Indonesian media suggest a $450 million deal is in place for coastal and naval variants of the missile.
This potential agreement is said to involve a local partner, BTI Defence (a subsidiary of the state-owned firm PT Pindad), and includes technology transfer for indigenous production, assembly, and maintenance.
Negotiations with Indonesia have been underway for several years but are believed to have accelerated due to rising regional tensions, particularly concerning China's activities near the Natuna Islands.
The BrahMos system would provide Indonesia with a significant anti-ship and land-attack capability to enhance its archipelagic defence.
However, official sources caution that talks are active with multiple nations, including Vietnam, the UAE, and South Africa, and the two new pacts could be with any of these interested parties.
The landmark 2022 deal with the Philippines established the export model, which included shore-based missile batteries, launchers, training, and logistical support, with deliveries completed in 2024.
The BrahMos, a supersonic cruise missile developed as an Indo-Russian joint venture, is restricted to a 290-kilometre range for export customers to comply with the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
BrahMos Aerospace, which features 80% Indian content, is now aiming for $2 billion in annual revenues.
