India’s cutting-edge BrahMos cruise missile is set for a significant upgrade. The development of the BrahMos NG (Next Generation) missile system is entering its advanced stages. If progress stays on track, production is expected to commence within the next two to three years.
Speaking at Aero India 2025, Jaiteerth R Joshi, Director General of the India-Russia Joint Venture BrahMos, stated, “The development is in advanced stages. We anticipate conducting the first flight tests by next year, with production commencing between 2027 and 2028.”
The BrahMos NG will be designed for compatibility with a wider range of platforms, including smaller delivery systems. Joshi highlighted, “BrahMos NG is a more compact missile with the same capabilities as its predecessor. We are integrating state-of-the-art technologies to achieve a sleeker design while maintaining its effectiveness.”
Despite its reduced size, the new missile will retain its predecessor’s formidable 290 km range while achieving a top speed of Mach 3.5. Its streamlined design makes it significantly lighter and more adaptable for various platforms, including the Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft and the indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
The BrahMos NG will weigh 1.6 tonnes and measure 6 meters long, whereas the older version weighed 3 tonnes and measured 9 meters. The next-generation missile will also have a lower radar cross-section, enhancing its stealth capabilities. It will also feature an indigenous seeker with an AESA radar, further improving its accuracy and targeting efficiency.
Expanding Export Prospects
The BrahMos NG has already garnered international interest, expanding India’s footprint in the global defence market. India has successfully supplied three BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system batteries to the Philippines, marking a major milestone in defence exports. Talks are ongoing with several other nations, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Discussions with Vietnam are also ongoing. A defence delegation from Vietnam, led by Maj. Gen. Duong Van Yen, Vice Chairman of the General Department of Defense Industry, visited the BrahMos pavilion during Aero India 2025. BrahMos CEO Joshi apprised him about the various variants of the formidable supersonic BrahMos missile and its latest developments.
Although at an early stage, discussions with Indonesia received a boost during the recent visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day parade in January. During the visit, Indonesia’s Naval Chief toured the BrahMos headquarters in Delhi, where he was briefed on the missile’s capabilities. Indonesia has also expressed interest in acquiring other Indian defence systems, such as the Akash surface-to-air missile system and the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL).
As India continues strengthening its defence exports, the BrahMos NG is poised to play a pivotal role in securing strategic partnerships and expanding its defence capabilities globally.
Ravi Shankar
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