BrahMos Signs $375 Mn Missile Contract With Philippines To Bag First Export Order

Vishal Thapar Jan 28, 2022

BrahMos Aerospace, the Indo-Russian missile manufacturer, on January 28 signed a $375 Million contract with the Government of the Philippines for delivering three batteries of the BrahMos supersonic anti-ship cruise missile.

This is the first export order bagged by BrahMos since its inception two decades ago. The contract is also significant in the context of India’s outreach to Pacific Rim countries, traditionally considered China’s backyard.

“The contract is an important step forward for Government of India’s policy of promoting responsible defence exports,” the Ministry of Defence declared in a statement.

The shore-based anti-ship BrahMos cruise missile batteries will be operated by the Coastal Defence Regiment of the Philippine Marines. There’s often been tension in the waters around Philippines because of aggressive Chinese naval presence and its territorial claims over the Spratly Islands.

The BrahMos contract is amongst the most significant exports of offensive military equipment by India to an ASEAN country and marks a big moment in India’s Act East Policy. “This is a successful outcome of Indian outreach efforts to countries similarly threatened by Chinese expansionism,” a source told this reporter, explaining the context behind the contract.

The Government of India was involved in the contract negotiations. The deal includes an Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) package and training for operators and maintenance personnel.

This contract has the blessings of Russia, which is a joint venture partner in the BrahMos programme. Russia continues to supply key played parts, notably the engine which powers the 290-km range Brahmos to Mach 3, or three times the speed of sound.

Earlier, a notice of award was issued to Brahmos Aerospace by the Department of National Defence of the Philippines on December 31, 2021, notifying acceptance of the Brahmos offer and directing it to submit a performance guarantee within 10 days of receipt of the notice.

Brahmos missile regiments are deployed by India close to the borders where it faces threat of external aggression. It is the world’s fastest cruise missile, which with its manoeuvre capability is virtually impossible to intercept. It’s high level of accuracy is also proven.