Senior Correspondent, Dhaka:
India’s decision to supply the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system and the Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile to Indonesia marks another significant step in New Delhi’s efforts to emerge as a major defense exporter and strategic security partner across the Indo-Pacific. Coming shortly after reports of advanced discussions with the United Arab Emirates over similar defence exports, the move highlights India’s growing confidence in leveraging indigenous military technology as an instrument of foreign policy.
The announcement coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Indonesia, underscoring how defense cooperation has become an increasingly important pillar of bilateral relations. Beyond strengthening military ties, the agreement reflects the convergence of strategic interests between India and Southeast Asian countries seeking to modernize their armed forces amid evolving regional security challenges.
For Indonesia, acquiring the BrahMos missile system and Astra missile would enhance maritime deterrence and air defense capabilities in a region witnessing intensified geopolitical competition. As Southeast Asia becomes a focal point of strategic rivalry, Jakarta has sought to diversify its defense procurement while maintaining strategic autonomy through partnerships with multiple suppliers.
For India, the export reinforces its ambition to transform from one of the world’s largest arms importers into a competitive defense manufacturing hub. Successive defense exports to countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam and now Indonesia demonstrate growing international confidence in Indian-made military systems. At the same time, ongoing discussions with the United Arab Emirates over BrahMos and the Akashteer air defense system suggest that India’s defense diplomacy is expanding beyond the Indo-Pacific into the Middle East.
The broader significance lies in India’s use of defense exports to strengthen strategic partnerships without formal military alliances. By supplying advanced indigenous systems, New Delhi is enhancing its regional influence while supporting its “Make in India” initiative and boosting defense industrial exports.
However, expanding arms exports also places greater responsibility on India to ensure reliable production, long-term maintenance and timely delivery. If these commitments are met, defense exports could become a central pillar of India’s foreign policy, strengthening its role as both a security partner and an emerging global defense supplier.
