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India's invitation to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to be the Chief Guest at its upcoming Republic Day parade is coinciding with intensified efforts to finalize an export deal for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
This potential sale underscores the growing defence partnership between the two nations and India's broader strategy to counter Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
India has been actively pursuing BrahMos export deals with several Southeast Asian countries. Discussions regarding the potential sale to Indonesia gained momentum during Indian Navy Chief Dinesh Kumar Tripathi's visit to the country in December 2024.
Indonesia's Defence Minister, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, recently confirmed that collaboration on BrahMos technology is a key agenda point. While budgetary constraints have previously hindered progress, the Indonesian President is now pushing for an increase in the defence budget, potentially paving the way for the deal.
Indonesia has expressed particular interest in the air-launched version of the BrahMos missile, which would integrate well with its existing fleet of Russian Su-27 fighters. This acquisition would significantly enhance Indonesia's maritime strike capabilities.
As BrahMos is a joint venture between India and Russia, both countries must approve the sale. India is reportedly considering offering Indonesia a loan from the State Bank of India or another Indian national bank to facilitate the purchase.
The BrahMos missile, dubbed the Indian "Brahmastra," is a key component of India's nuclear triad and the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile. It can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or land platforms, providing a versatile and potent strike capability.
This potential deal with Indonesia aligns with India's broader strategy of bolstering the defence capabilities of Southeast Asian nations to counter China's growing assertiveness in the region. India has already secured a BrahMos deal with the Philippines, and the missiles have been deployed in the South China Sea. Furthermore, India is in talks with Vietnam for a $700 million BrahMos deal.
BrahMos Aerospace is optimistic about securing new export orders soon. Its director general, Jaiteerth Joshi, recently stated that several countries have expressed strong interest in the missile, and negotiations are progressing well.
The potential BrahMos deal is likely to be a key topic of discussion during Indonesian President Prabowo's visit to New Delhi and his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit could significantly accelerate bilateral defence cooperation, including potential deals for other Indian defence platforms such as the LCA Tejas fighter jet, Akash surface-to-air missile systems, and helicopters.
The strengthening defence partnership between India and Indonesia, symbolized by the potential BrahMos sale, represents a significant development in the Indo-Pacific security landscape. It reflects India's growing role as a regional security provider and its commitment to countering China's influence through strategic partnerships and defence cooperation.
