BrahMos missile deal with Vietnam in final stages
What's the story
The deal for the supersonic BrahMos missile with Vietnam is in its final stages, said Jaiteerth Joshi, CEO of BrahMos Aerospace. His comments come after Indian Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh's earlier statement that India and Vietnam had already signed the contract. However, Joshi clarified that while export negotiations are nearly complete with just minor clearances pending, they still need to secure relevant approvals to finalize it.
Global talks
Ongoing talks with multiple countries for missile exports
Joshi confirmed that they are in talks with several other countries in both the eastern and western regions. He said, "Once the government approval comes, we will come out in the open forum." This statement highlights India's growing defense diplomacy as it seeks to expand its BrahMos missile exports beyond Vietnam.
Strategic partnership
India-Vietnam defense ties strengthened by BrahMos missile deal
The India-Vietnam BrahMos deal is a major step in defense cooperation between the two nations. The missile, which can be launched from land, sea, air, and underwater, is key to India's nuclear triad. After an export deal with the Philippines, India is now negotiating with Vietnam and Indonesia for BrahMos missiles. Other countries like Cyprus, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have also expressed interest in purchasing the missile system.
Domestic production
Push for indigenous production of critical missile components
Joshi also emphasized the progress in the domestic production of critical missile components such as boosters and warheads. He said, "Negotiations with Vietnam are almost final and only a minor clearance is left." This comes as part of India's broader push to indigenize defense manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports.
Expansion plans
BrahMos Aerospace to boost production in collaboration with private players
BrahMos Aerospace intends to boost its production capacity in collaboration with private sector partners who have received technology transfers for critical components like the booster and warhead. Joshi stressed that SDAL should ramp up production to deliver at least 12 boosters a month. He also flagged off the first indigenously made BrahMos warhead from the same facility, which will be tested and certified for integration with the missile.