- India and Indonesia Expand Defence Cooperation with Proposed BrahMos and Astra Missile Deal
Jakarta: India and Indonesia are moving closer to a major defence agreement that would see Indonesia acquire BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Astra air-to-air missiles from India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to the Indonesian capital.
According to Beyond Time News, Indian officials expect the agreement to be finalized during the visit. The proposed package is estimated at around $630 million and would make Indonesia the third country to formally agree to purchase the BrahMos missile system.
The deal would represent another step in India’s effort to expand defence exports and strengthen strategic ties with Southeast Asian nations.
BrahMos and Astra missiles at the centre of talks
The proposed agreement includes the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, produced by BrahMos Aerospace. The missile was jointly developed by India and Russia and is designed for launch from land, sea, and air platforms.
Indonesia is also expected to receive Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, which can be integrated with the Indonesian Air Force’s Russian-made Sukhoi fighter aircraft.
Indian officials say discussions have focused on a phased acquisition plan that would allow Indonesia to gradually expand its missile capabilities over time.
Strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific
Modi is scheduled to meet Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to discuss defence cooperation, maritime security, regional connectivity, and broader Indo-Pacific coordination.
According to Beyond Time News, both countries view the Indo-Pacific as a key strategic region where closer coordination can help protect trade routes and support regional stability.
Indonesia sits along some of the world’s busiest maritime corridors, making defence cooperation particularly important for both governments.
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Background: Indonesia’s growing interest in BrahMos
Indonesia first indicated its interest in the BrahMos system earlier this year. Officials in Jakarta said negotiations were at an advanced stage and that the missile purchase could significantly strengthen the country’s coastal defence capability.
The latest discussions appear to broaden the scope of cooperation by adding Astra missiles and long-term technical support.
The package under consideration includes:
- Missile launch systems
- Supporting infrastructure
- Operator training
- Maintenance services
- Technical assistance for long-term deployment
Why the deal matters
The agreement could have several important consequences for the region:
Boost for India’s defence exports
India has been trying to increase military exports as part of its broader economic and strategic goals. Successful sales to countries such as the Philippines and Vietnam have already raised the profile of Indian-made missile systems.
Enhanced Indonesian deterrence
The acquisition would improve Indonesia’s ability to monitor and defend its maritime approaches, especially in areas where regional security competition has intensified.
Deeper India–Indonesia strategic ties
Defence cooperation often leads to broader collaboration in technology, training, intelligence sharing, and regional diplomacy. The missile deal could therefore become part of a larger security partnership.
Trade and diplomatic context
Economic relations between the two countries have also been expanding. Bilateral trade reached more than $28 billion during the 2024–25 financial year, making Indonesia one of India’s largest trading partners within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Before leaving for Jakarta, Modi said his visits to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand were intended to strengthen India’s “Act East” policy and support a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
Possible implications
If the agreement is signed, analysts expect other Southeast Asian countries to watch the development closely. Several governments have already expressed interest in Indian defence technology, and a successful Indonesian purchase could encourage additional negotiations across the region.
The deal may also increase India’s role as a defence supplier in the Indo-Pacific at a time when many countries are seeking to diversify their military procurement sources.
Conclusion
The expected BrahMos and Astra missile agreement marks a new phase in India–Indonesia relations. Beyond the sale itself, the discussions during Modi’s Jakarta visit highlight growing cooperation on defence, maritime security, and Indo-Pacific strategy. If finalized, the deal would strengthen Indonesia’s military capabilities while further expanding India’s presence in the regional defence market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What missiles is Indonesia planning to buy from India?
Indonesia is expected to purchase BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles.
How much is the proposed missile deal worth?
According to Beyond Time News, the package is estimated at approximately $630 million.
Why is the BrahMos missile important?
The BrahMos is one of the world’s fastest operational cruise missiles and can be launched from land, sea, and air platforms.
Who will meet during Modi’s Jakarta visit?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
What broader issues will India and Indonesia discuss?
The two countries are expected to discuss maritime security, defence cooperation, regional connectivity, and Indo-Pacific strategic coordination.
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#Indonesia #India #BrahMos #AstraMissile #NarendraModi #PrabowoSubianto #IndoPacific #DefenceNews #SouthEastAsia #BeyondTimeNews
