As reported by the Twitter account Noise Alerts on April 19, 2024, the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles was delivered to the Philippine Marine Corps in Manila by an Indian Air Force IL-76TD aircraft. This delivery, which is part of a $375 million agreement signed in 2022, included not only the missiles but also ground launcher systems, marking the first time India has exported the BrahMos missile system to another country.
This delivery comes at a time of heightened tensions in the South China Sea, with the Philippines planning to deploy three batteries of BrahMos missiles in strategic coastal areas to strengthen its defense posture against potential threats, notably from China’s expansive territorial claims in the region. Further strengthening its defense relationship with the Philippines, India has also extended a $100-million defense-related Line of Credit to Manila, which could also potentially include sales of the Advanced Light Helicopter and the Light Combat Helicopter.
The potential for further exports of the BrahMos system is substantial, with discussions ongoing for possible sales to other nations such as Vietnam, UAE, and Indonesia. Additionally, the Indian government has approved a substantial order for over 200 BrahMos-ER missiles, valued at close to Rs 20,000 crore (about $2.401.076), to be fitted onboard premier Indian warships and operated from Su-30MKI fighter jets by the air force, reflecting the missile’s adaptability across different platforms.
The BrahMos missile, also designated as PJ-10, is a joint Indian-Russian military project, deriving its name from the Brahmaputra River in India and the Moskva River in Russia. It is produced by BrahMos Aerospace, established through a collaboration between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya. This medium-range supersonic cruise missile is capable of being launched from various platforms including submarines, ships, fighter aircraft, and land-based mobile launchers.