India, Russia, and Indonesia have concluded pricing for a $450 million deal involving BrahMos cruise missiles following extensive negotiations. As Indonesia prepares to participate in Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, an announcement related to this deal is anticipated. The partnership aims to strengthen Indonesia’s military capabilities amid the ongoing challenges posed by global geopolitical events.
India, Russia, and Indonesia have finalized the pricing for the BrahMos cruise missile deal, valued at $450 million. This agreement comes after more than seven years of negotiations between New Delhi and Jakarta, with key involvement from Russia’s state arms export agency, Rosoboronexport. The Indian government is anticipated to formally announce Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s visit on January 26 for Republic Day, potentially linking this visit to the missile deal announcement.
Indonesian officials have expressed interest in acquiring technology transfer related to the BrahMos missile system to mitigate potential shortages of replacement parts, which have affected other nations purchasing Russian military equipment. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also influenced the proposed deal’s timeline. A team from BrahMos Aerospace previously evaluated fitting the missile on Indonesian naval vessels in an effort to strengthen defense ties.
Furthermore, India aims to supply not only the BrahMos but also coastal defense radars and marine-grade steel to Indonesia. Under former President Joko Widodo’s leadership, Indonesia intensified its naval cooperation with India, emphasizing maritime security throughout the Indian Ocean. President Prabowo, who has a military background, is expected to enhance this military collaboration further.
The BrahMos cruise missile is a product of collaboration between India and Russia, designed for export to bolster defense partnerships. Indonesia’s engagement in securing this deal is part of a strategic initiative to enhance its military capabilities, especially for naval warfare. The discussions have spanned over several years, underpinned by geopolitical considerations and the need for technology transfer, influenced by global events such as the conflict in Ukraine, that have affected supply chains and availability of military components.
The agreement reached among India, Russia, and Indonesia regarding the BrahMos missile deal marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation. With Indonesia set to become the second foreign buyer of this missile, the deal underscores India’s aspirations to emerge as a defense hardware exporter. The agreement illustrates the complexities of international defense negotiations while addressing the technological and supply chain concerns raised by Indonesia.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
