BrahMos Missile Exports Gain Global Strategic Attention
India’s BrahMos missile exports have moved into sharp global focus following the missile’s reported combat deployment during Operation Sindoor in May 2025 and New Delhi’s sustained push to position itself as a reliable defence exporter under the Make in India programme. The supersonic cruise missile, jointly developed by India and Russia, is increasingly viewed as a credible maritime and coastal deterrent, particularly in geopolitically sensitive regions.
Despite rising international interest, the Philippines remains the only country with a formally concluded BrahMos contract as of January 17, 2026. Several other nations are engaged in advanced negotiations or active discussions, but no additional deals have yet crossed the final approval stage.
Philippines: The Only Confirmed BrahMos Operator
The Philippines signed a USD 375 million contract in 2022 for three BrahMos coastal defence missile batteries. The agreement marked India’s first major supersonic cruise missile export.
Deliveries were completed in phases. The first battery was handed over in 2024, followed by the second in 2025, with operational integration progressing steadily. Philippine defence officials have publicly indicated that additional orders remain under consideration, especially as maritime tensions persist in the South China Sea.
The deal has become a reference point for other potential buyers evaluating India’s defence export ecosystem.
Indonesia: Advanced Negotiations but No Closure Yet
Indonesia is widely regarded as the next most likely BrahMos export destination, although the deal remains unsigned. Negotiations for a USD 450 million agreement covering shore-based anti-ship variants have been categorised as being in advanced stages since late 2025.
Status of the Indonesia–BrahMos Talks
Discussions were substantially concluded during the India–Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in late 2025, with scope for future interest in the BrahMos-NG variant also examined. By November 2025, officials indicated that only Russia’s formal no-objection certificate (NOC) remained pending, a procedural requirement under the joint venture framework.
The clearance was expected during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India in December 2025, but it did not materialise. Subsequent diplomatic engagements, including the Indonesian President’s visit to Moscow, have not yet resolved the issue. Recent Indonesia–Pakistan interactions have introduced caution but have not formally stalled negotiations.
If finalised, Indonesia would become the second Southeast Asian BrahMos operator, strengthening India’s strategic footprint in the region.
Vietnam: Large Deal Near Final Stages
Vietnam is another key contender in India’s BrahMos missile exports drive. Reports throughout 2025 suggest negotiations are close to finalisation for a deal valued between USD 625 – 700 million, covering three to five missile batteries for army and naval deployment.
The talks have advanced against the backdrop of sustained tensions in the South China Sea. Technology transfer elements have also been discussed, reflecting Vietnam’s emphasis on long-term deterrence capability. Although no formal announcement has been made, the deal is frequently described as being in near-final stages.
Malaysia: Interest in Air-Launched Variants
Malaysia has shown interest in integrating BrahMos with its existing platforms, particularly Su-30MKM fighter aircraft. Discussions have also included the possibility of deployment on select naval vessels, including Kedah-class warships.
While talks remain exploratory, Malaysia’s interest reflects the missile’s growing appeal as a multi-platform solution rather than a purely coastal system.
Middle East and Latin America Show Growing Interest
Beyond Southeast Asia, several countries across the Middle East and Latin America have been linked to potential BrahMos missile exports between 2024 and 2026.
Middle East
United Arab Emirates has been identified by BrahMos Aerospace officials as a high-potential market.
Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in land and naval variants.
Egypt, Qatar, and Oman have been mentioned in regional defence discussions, primarily for coastal defence roles.
Latin America
Brazil has explored options for naval and coastal variants, while Chile, Argentina, and Venezuela have appeared in exploratory reports assessing regional maritime security needs.
Broader Export Trends and Official Signals
Indian defence officials have repeatedly stated that 14 – 17 countries have expressed interest in BrahMos missile exports in various forms. This surge followed the missile’s combat exposure during Operation Sindoor, which significantly enhanced its “combat-proven” credentials.
In late 2025, India announced new BrahMos export contracts worth USD 450–482 million with two undisclosed countries. While speculation points towards Indonesia, Vietnam, or a combination of both, no official confirmation has been issued.
Future Outlook: BrahMos-NG and Export Constraints
Looking ahead, the BrahMos-NG (Next Generation) variant, designed to be lighter and compatible with a wider range of aircraft, is expected to undergo trials in 2026. The system is likely to attract interest from countries operating lighter fighters.
However, all BrahMos missile exports remain subject to Russian clearance, strict end-user agreements, and MTCR compliance. These constraints continue to influence timelines and final approvals.
While Southeast Asia remains the primary theatre of interest due to maritime disputes, growing engagement from the Middle East and Latin America highlights a broader shift away from traditional defence suppliers. For now, the Philippines stands alone as the confirmed buyer, with Indonesia and Vietnam closest to altering that status.
