India's BrahMos Missile Outpaces China's Air Defences, Says Defence Expert

India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has emerged as a game-changer in the region's military landscape, with defence expert Sanjeev Srivastava highlighting its unmatched capabilities. Backing his view, US defence analyst John Spencer remarked that the BrahMos is so advanced that even China’s powerful air defence systems have failed to intercept it—underscoring India's growing military edge in Asia.

According to Srivastava, Spencer noted that India's military response using the BrahMos missile in Operation Sindoor drew international attention. The operation, launched on May 7 in response to a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 people, saw Indian forces strike nine terror targets deep within Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Pakistan’s HQ-9B air defence system, considered one of its strongest, could not stop the missile strike, exposing critical vulnerabilities.

The BrahMos missile, developed jointly by India and Russia, has become a symbol of India's advanced defence capabilities and successful international collaboration. With its ability to travel at nearly three times the speed of sound, the missile offers exceptional precision and flexibility. It can be launched from land-based platforms, fighter jets, naval ships, and even submarines, making it a versatile weapon for any battlefield scenario.

Initially designed with a range of 290 km, upgraded versions such as the BrahMos-Extended Range (ER) can now hit targets up to 800 km away. The missile is also guided by sophisticated navigation systems and stealth technology, making it both accurate and hard to detect. Future versions, including BrahMos-II (capable of flying at hypersonic speeds of Mach 7-8) and the smaller, stealthier BrahMos-NG, are currently in the works to expand its capabilities further.

Srivastava emphasised that the BrahMos missile is not just a tool of warfare but also a strategic asset in India's defence diplomacy. It plays a critical role in India’s Cruise Missile Triad, designed to conduct precision strikes against land and sea targets, and contributes to a robust deterrent posture in the region.

He also noted that several countries are now interested in acquiring the BrahMos, reflecting its global appeal and India’s emergence as a significant player in the international defence market.

On a broader note, Srivastava touched upon India’s independent foreign and defence policies. He said that during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, many Western nations attempted to influence India’s stance, but New Delhi remained firm. “India’s new government does not operate under Western pressure. Our defence strategies are built around national interests, not foreign dictates,” he said.

In conclusion, the BrahMos missile has not only proven its tactical superiority but also strengthened India’s global defence posture. Its ability to outperform even the most advanced enemy defences signals a new era in India’s military capability and international strategic influence.