During Operation Sindoor in Pakistan, the demand for this missile is increasing rapidly after the way India’s indigenous BrahMos supersonic cruise missile destroyed military targets and terrorist hideouts with precise targeting. Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim country, has now almost reached the final stage of the deal to buy BrahMos from India. This possibility has been further strengthened by the visit of Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafri Sjamsoedin, who arrived on a two-day visit to India on Wednesday. He is attending the third meeting of India-Indonesia Defense Ministers.
Deal with Indonesia in advanced stage
According to a report, talks between India and Indonesia regarding BrahMos have progressed significantly. Russia, which has developed this missile in collaboration with India, has also agreed to sell BrahMos to Indonesia. It is being told that after the success in Operation Sindoor, many countries are showing interest in purchasing this missile of India.
How was the performance of BrahMos in Operation Sindoor?
According to media reports, this missile was used in precise military attacks on Pakistan on the morning of 10 May. India had targeted many important airbases of Pakistan – Rafiqui, Muridke, Noor Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur and Chunian. Apart from this, there were reports of heavy damage in Bolari, Skardu, Jacobabad and Sargodha. After this attack, the accuracy and power of BrahMos started being discussed all over the world.
What is BrahMos and what is its capability?
BrahMos missile system was developed in joint collaboration between India and Russia. Its first test took place on 12 June 2001. This missile can fly three times faster than sound, i.e. at the speed of Mach 3 and its initial range was 290 km, but now its advanced versions have a range of 500 to 800 km. This missile can fly at very low altitude while avoiding enemy radar and once launched, it can itself search the target and attack.
How much is the price?
The initial cost of the BrahMos project was approximately Rs 2,135 crore, in which India’s share is 50.5% and Russia’s 49.5%. According to reports, the cost of one BrahMos missile is around Rs 34 crore. In Pakistani currency this amount is more than Rs 1.12 billion.
Which versions are in service and what’s next?
The Indian Army currently has two main versions – BrahMos Block-1, air-launched BrahMos. Three more advanced versions are being prepared for the future, which include an extended version with 1500 km range, a hypersonic model with Mach 8 speed and a lightweight, next-gen version that can be launched from every platform.