
India Signs BrahMos Missile Deal with Vietnam
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Why in News
- The Defence Secretary announced at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that India finalized a BrahMos missile deal with Vietnam.
- A similar agreement with Indonesia is moving toward completion following a March 2026 understanding.
- The Philippines acted as the first foreign buyer by signing an agreement worth nearly $375 million in 2022.
- India shares advanced defence systems with friendly partners like ASEAN nations to build strategic trust.
- Several ASEAN members face maritime disputes with China in the South China Sea, making these defence exports strategically vital.
Shangri-La Dialogue
- This event serves as an annual inter-governmental security forum hosted in Singapore.
- It gathers defence ministers, military leaders, and experts to debate security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
About BrahMos Missile
- This weapon is a supersonic cruise missile created jointly by India and Russia.
- Engineers combined Indian guidance systems with Russian propulsion technology to ensure high reliability.
- Its name combines the names of two rivers, namely the Brahmaputra and the Moskva.
Historical Milestones
- The Indian Navy inducted the missile into service in 2005.
- The Indian Army added the system to its arsenal in 2007.
- The IAF successfully launched the missile from a Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft for the first time in 2017.
Type and Versatility
- Forces can launch the missile from land, air, sea, and submarine platforms.
- Extended ranges and advanced sensors make it adaptable for various operational needs.
Speed and Significance
- The missile achieves supersonic speeds of around Mach 2.8 to 3, allowing it to strike targets very quickly.
- Its precision and stability highlight India's growth in domestic defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.