The Indian Army and Air Force are set to engage in discussions regarding a major procurement deal for approximately 250 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, valued at around ₹20,000 Crores. This crucial meeting will take place during the upcoming session of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on 20th March 2025. The DAC, which is responsible for overseeing defence procurements, will be chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and will include key military leaders and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence. The discussions are expected to focus on the details of this significant acquisition, which is aimed at enhancing India’s defence capabilities.

The BrahMos missile, a product of a joint venture between India and Russia that was developed nearly three decades ago, is one of the most advanced supersonic cruise missiles in the world. Named after the Brahmaputra and Moscow rivers, the missile boasts a range of 300 km and is capable of striking both land and naval targets with high precision. As part of this deal, it is expected that the Indian Army will receive a larger share of these advanced missiles, reflecting the Armys operational requirements. The Indian Air Force will also be allocated a portion of the missile systems, but the Army’s share will be more substantial. In addition to the BrahMos deal, the DAC meeting will also discuss other important defence procurement matters, such as the refit of a submarine, the acquisition of new ship-launched torpedoes, and the procurement of advanced anti-aircraft missiles.

In recent years, India has made considerable strides in pursuing self-reliance in its defence procurement strategies, with a growing preference for domestic production and deals that involve significant Indian content. This focus on indigenization aims to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and strengthen the countrys defence industry. A notable example of this shift is the growing number of defence exports, including the recent sale of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines. This marks a key milestone in Indias defence export strategy, as the country seeks to become a major player in the global defence market. The acquisition of the BrahMos missiles is not just a boost to India’s military capabilities; it also has wider geopolitical and economic implications. The deal further reinforces Indias position as a strong and competitive player in the global defence sector. It is expected that these advanced missile systems will significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the Indian military, ensuring the country is well-prepared for future security challenges. The continued success of BrahMos exports and the strengthening of indigenous defence production capabilities are likely to play an essential role in India’s long-term strategic vision.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from Republic.