India is set to send the fourth ‘battery’ of land version BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines today. This move significantly boosts defense exports and comes amidst growing tensions in the South China Sea due to Chinese assertions. The deal, worth USD 375 million, was signed by the two allies in 2022, and it involves handing over four launchers with three missiles each on a mobile platform.
The range of these missiles is 290 km, making them difficult to intercept by land or ship-based Ballistic Missile Defence systems. With this addition, India’s defense exports for 2023-2024 have reached ₹21083 crores with a year-on-year growth of 32.5%. Due to the proven track record of BrahMos missiles, it is expected that more orders will be received in the near future.
In addition to missile exports, the Narendra Modi government is exploring opportunities for a joint venture between Mazagon Dockyards Limited and French Naval Group. The plan involves manufacturing Scorpene-class diesel-electric submarines in Mumbai and supplying them to third countries like Indonesia and Malaysia. Chief of Defense Staff Gen Anil Chauhan’s current visit to France aims at fostering cooperation between Indian and French supply chains for manufacturing high-tech sub-surface platforms under Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
During his visit, Gen Anil Chauhan will interact with Naval Group officials as well as representatives from Emmanuel Macron’s government. He will also explore possibilities for deepening bilateral defense cooperation by visiting French submarine bases at Brest and possibly Toulouse. Talks are already underway between MDL and French Naval Group regarding construction of additional Kalveri class submarines for India.
While P-5 powers rely on nuclear-powered conventionally armed attack submarines (SSNs) for deterrence purposes, India is currently considering its options for long-term maritime security needs. These options include manufacturing SSNs or exploring alternatives such as lithium battery-powered, air-independent propulsion, conventional diesel-electric submarines, and underwater armed drones. These proposals are expected to be further discussed and developed during the Modi 3.0 regime.