New Delhi:Once one of the largest importers of weapons, India has achieved a significant milestone as its BrahMos missiles witness growing global demand. In a strategic development, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is set to visit India on Republic Day. This visit from the leader of the world’s largest Muslim-majority country is expected to include several agreements, including a key deal involving BrahMos missiles. Jointly developed by India and Russia, these missiles have attracted interest from various nations. Reports suggest that during this visit, Indonesia may finalize the deal for BrahMos missiles, with deliveries planned in the coming years.
In a historic move, 400 Indonesian soldiers will participate in India’s Republic Day parade in Delhi. This marks the largest foreign military contingent to ever join the parade. Indonesia will become the third Southeast Asian nation to secure a BrahMos missile deal after the Philippines and Vietnam.
In 2020, then-Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto visited India and expressed interest in acquiring BrahMos missiles during talks with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. However, budget constraints delayed the deal. Now as President, Subianto plans to dedicate the initial phase of his tenure to welfare schemes, followed by defense acquisitions in the new fiscal year.
India and Indonesia share a longstanding relationship, strengthened by cultural ties despite Indonesia being the most populous Muslim-majority nation. Symbolic elements of Sanatan Dharma have long existed in Indonesia, fostering close ties between the two nations. Additionally, Indonesia plays a vital role in the Indo-ASEAN Summit, enhancing bilateral cooperation.
BrahMos missiles are a testament to India’s self-reliant defense capabilities. These missiles can be launched from land, sea, or air and strike targets up to 650 kilometers away with unmatched precision. Their advanced design ensures they hit targets accurately, even over vast distances, without deviation. Capable of neutralizing enemy positions from oceans to high-altitude mountains, the BrahMos missile highlights India’s growing prowess in defense technology.