Centre Clears Biggest BrahMos Supersonic Missiles Deal For Indian Navy Warships

The mega deal for the BrahMos missiles is worth more than Rs 20,000 crore and procurement of the units will be done in phases till 2030, sources in the government said.

The BrahMos missile is developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India and Russia.

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The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS)on Wednesday night cleared the biggest purchase order of BrahMos missiles to date as the Centre approved the purchase order for the Indian Navy worth more than Rs 20,000 crore. The procurement of the BrahMos will be done in phases till 2030.

As part of the order cleared by the CCS, BrahMos Aerospace will supply 200 BrahMos-ER supersonic cruise missiles to be deployed on the Navy's warships. The BrahMos Aerospace and the Ministry of Defence are likely to sign the contract for the purchase order in March. BrahMos Aerospace is a joint venture between the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation and the Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya. 

The BrahMos missile has also gained global attention, with the Philippines being the first customer. The Atul Rane-led BrahMos Aerospace is aiming for the $5 billion export target by 2025. This is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of becoming a net exporter of defence equipment.

Deadly & Accurate — All About BrahMos Ship-Based Missile System

The BrahMos, recognised as the most lethal supersonic cruise missile globally, has showcased its remarkable capabilities in accurately striking targets on both sea and land, surpassing radar horizons. Specifically designed for naval deployment, this weapon can be launched in a vertical or inclined mode from a stationary or moving maritime platform, engaging targets at stand-off ranges on sea or land.

Integrated into the forefront of the Indian Navy's surface combat platforms, including destroyers and frigates, the BrahMos stands as the primary offensive weapon. Through a series of successful test firings conducted from naval warships, the missile has demonstrated unparalleled speed, precision, and formidable firepower, swiftly obliterating enemy targets in various scenarios, be it sea-to-sea or sea-to-land configurations.

The missile's 'salvo' launch capability is a much sought-after feature as exemplified in a successful test from the guided missile frigate, INS Trikand. According to the BrahMos Aeorospace, in 'salvo' mode, the BrahMos can be launched at intervals of 2-2.5 seconds, following different trajectories. This capability allows a salvo of eight BrahMos missiles to effectively penetrate and destroy a group of targets equipped with modern anti-missile defences, showcasing its versatility and strategic impact.

The missile was first deployed on INS Rajput.

(— By Ashish Singh.)