Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh confirmed that a BrahMos missile deal with Vietnam has been signed, while a similar pact with Indonesia is in its final stages. Singh made the remarks during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
The Philippines was the first foreign buyer of the BrahMos missile system from India, signing a contract worth nearly USD 375 million in 2022. Indonesia and Vietnam have also expressed interest in procuring the system.
Singh emphasized India's commitment to sharing advanced defence technologies with friendly nations, citing the country's strong ties with ASEAN member states. He noted that India has a strong commitment to the ASEAN nations and treats all of them as "friendly foreign countries" with whom it can share advanced defence technologies.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises 11 member states, including Indonesia and Vietnam, which have overlapping maritime claims with China in the South China Sea.
India's BrahMos exports to countries in the region have drawn attention as New Delhi expands defence ties with Southeast Asian nations. Singh highlighted the importance of building resilient supply chains, trusted defence partnerships, and secure maritime commons.
He emphasized that India is ready to work with partners across the region and beyond to achieve these goals. Singh also noted that India has undertaken major reforms in defence production, innovation, and exports over the past decade.
The country has opened the sector to greater private-sector participation, encouraged startups and small industries, strengthened indigenous design and manufacturing, and expanded collaboration with global partners.
