India and Vietnam Poised to Finalize Historic $700 Million BrahMos Missile Deal
India and Vietnam are on the brink of a groundbreaking defence agreement involving the acquisition of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, valued at $700 million. The deal, which is expected to be signed in the coming months, marks a significant milestone in defence cooperation between the two nations, reinforcing their strategic partnership amid evolving regional security challenges.
The BrahMos missile, a joint development by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya, is renowned for its precision and speed. Capable of reaching speeds of up to Mach 2.9 and striking targets over 400 kilometers away, the missile is versatile and can be launched from land, sea, or air platforms. These capabilities make it a highly sought-after weapon system, especially in regions experiencing heightened security concerns.
Strengthening Defence Ties
This agreement positions Vietnam as the second international buyer of the BrahMos missile system, following the Philippines, which inked a similar deal in 2022. The Vietnamese Army and Navy are both expected to integrate the system into their arsenals, enhancing their defence capabilities significantly.
Lieutenant General N.S. Raja Subramani, Vice Chief of the Indian Army, is currently on a pivotal three-day visit to Vietnam to solidify defence ties and finalize the BrahMos export deal. His visit underscores India's commitment to fostering deeper military collaboration with Vietnam, particularly as both nations navigate shared regional challenges, including maritime security in the South China Sea.
Showcasing Collaboration at VIDE 2024
The Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024 (VIDE24) further highlighted the strengthening defence partnership between the two countries. The event featured the inauguration of an India Pavilion, showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies and products from prominent Indian companies such as BrahMos Aerospace, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, and DRDO. High-ranking officials from both nations, including Vietnam's Minister of Public Security General Luong Tam Quang and Indian Secretary of Defence Production Sanjeev Kumar, attended the event.
A Strategic Step in Regional Security
This potential agreement reflects India's growing role as a global defence exporter and a key player in Southeast Asia. By enhancing Vietnam's military capabilities, the deal aims to counterbalance increasing assertiveness in the region, ensuring stability and security. For Vietnam, the acquisition of BrahMos represents a significant boost to its defence infrastructure, enabling it to protect its maritime interests effectively.
For India, this deal not only strengthens its "Act East" policy but also underscores its emergence as a reliable defence partner for nations in Southeast Asia. As both countries move towards finalizing the agreement, this landmark collaboration is set to redefine their defence and strategic ties for years to come.
