India’s first major defence system export deal
India has signed a $375 million contract, its first major defence system export deal with the Philippines, for the BrahMos shore-based antiship missile system.
The 290 km range supersonic missile has been jointly developed with Russia and is produced in India. This is already in use by the three Armed forces
Potential export customers include Vietnam and Indonesia where advanced discussions are going on.
Announcing the signing of the agreement, the defence ministry said the contract is an important step forward in the policy of promoting responsible defence exports. “BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) signed a contract with the Department of National Defence of the Republic of Philippines for supply of Shore Based Anti-Ship Missile System to the Philippines. The BAPL is a joint venture company of the Defence Research and Development Organisation,” the defence ministry spokesperson said.
As per sources, there is a potential for increasing the sale of more Brahmos systems to Philippines itself and that the contract includes training of the firing and maintenance crew for the missiles. The missile system will be delivered to the Philippines within the stipulated timeframe.
“India’s quest to become a major defence exporter to reach the $5 billion target and to realise Prime Minister’s dream, has got a major push today with the BrahMos contract. Defence export can lead to creation of wealth, employment and longterm international friendship,” Sudhir K Mishra, former CEO of BrahMos said.
Philippines Defence Minister Delfin Lorenzana attended the signing ceremony and the conference to conclude the contract that will upgrade India’s defence ties with SE Asia to the next level. Senior diplomats from both sides, including those associated with the BrahMos project, were also present. The Notice of Award was communicated to the BrahMos officials by the Philippines’ Department of National Defence earlier this month, following which BrahMos officials travelled to Manila to conclude the formal contract.
PositiveNewsCorner 