Indonesia to Procure BrahMos and Astra Missiles During PM Modi’s Jakarta Visit
JAKARTA: Indonesia is set to procure BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Astra air-to-air missiles from India, according to an Indian government official, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins a two-day official visit to Jakarta.
The agreement is expected to strengthen defense cooperation between India and Indonesia while expanding India’s growing defense export sector.
Defense Cooperation Set to Expand
According to officials, the proposed agreement includes the supply of BrahMos cruise missiles, Astra air-to-air missiles, operator training, maintenance support, and related technical assistance.
If finalized, Indonesia would become the latest international customer for the BrahMos missile system, following similar defense agreements with other countries.
BrahMos and Astra Missile Systems
The BrahMos Aerospace BrahMos missile is jointly developed by India and Russia and is designed for launch from land, naval, and air platforms.
The Astra missile is an air-to-air weapon developed for modern fighter aircraft and can be integrated with Sukhoi fighter jets operated by the Indonesian Air Force.
Strategic Discussions During Visit
During his visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
The discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including maritime security, defense industry cooperation, regional connectivity, and broader strategic coordination in the Indo-Pacific region.
Officials also indicated that both sides are considering a phased procurement plan that would allow Indonesia to gradually expand its defense capabilities over time.
Growing Bilateral Partnership
India and Indonesia have continued to strengthen economic and strategic ties in recent years.
Alongside defense cooperation, bilateral trade between the two countries has grown steadily, making Indonesia one of India’s most important trading partners within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The expected defense agreement reflects the expanding partnership between the two countries and highlights India’s increasing role as a supplier of defense equipment to international markets.
