India, Indonesia make fresh progress on possible BrahMos deal at defence ministers’ talks

India and Indonesia reviewed their defence cooperation during the third Defence Ministers’ Dialogue held in New Delhi on Thursday, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin to explore ways to deepen strategic and military ties.

Although the official statement did not refer to BrahMos, senior officials familiar with the discussions indicated fresh progress on the potential export of the missile system to Indonesia.

During the meeting, Rajnath Singh presented a model of the BrahMos missile to the visiting minister—an overt signal of growing defence alignment between the two countries.

Indonesia has maintained strong interest in acquiring BrahMos, especially to bolster maritime security in the Malacca Strait, the Natuna region and the broader Indo-Pacific. Previous talks have included proposals for phased procurement, long-term maintenance support and training modules for Indonesian forces.

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Officials now say negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with a formal announcement expected in the near future. The possible deal is also being viewed through the lens of deeper defence industrial collaboration, as Jakarta considers technology partnerships and maintenance infrastructure opportunities in India.

Both sides are working to streamline procurement processes through a proposed joint committee that would address certification requirements, supply chain access and co-development mechanisms.

Beyond the missile discussions, the meeting focused on expanding military engagements—joint exercises, professional training programmes and enhanced maritime security cooperation. Cyber security, intelligence sharing and maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean were identified as key priorities.

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According to the Defence Ministry, both ministers expressed satisfaction with the dialogue’s progress and underscored the need to continue high-level exchanges and practical collaboration to support peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

Earlier this year, Indonesia sent a 352-member contingent to participate in India’s Republic Day parade, reflecting the growing momentum in bilateral defence ties. If the BrahMos deal is finalised, Indonesia will become the second overseas operator of the missile after the Philippines—another milestone in India’s emergence as a major defence exporter.

New Delhi also announced that the Indian Army’s Remount Veterinary Corps will gift horses and a ceremonial carriage to Indonesia.