The BrahMos missile has emerged as one of the most powerful symbols of India’s growing defence capabilities. Its success has sparked global interest, with several countries now in talks to acquire it.
BrahMos: Where did this name come from?
The BrahMos missile is the result of a joint venture between India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPOM. Named after two rivers — the Brahmaputra in India and the Moskva in Russia — this collaboration began in 1998. The first successful test of BrahMos was conducted in 2001 off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha.
What makes BrahMos so powerful?
BrahMos is a universal, long-range supersonic cruise missile system. It can be launched from land, air, sea, and even submarines. With a top speed of Mach 2.8 (nearly three times the speed of sound), it is one of the fastest cruise missiles in operation today. Its two-stage propulsion system — a solid-fuel booster followed by a liquid-fueled ramjet engine — allows it to travel at high speeds over long distances.
What are its specifications?
The missile operates at ranges between 290 and 800 kilometres, depending on the variant. It carries a conventional warhead weighing between 200 to 300 kilograms. BrahMos is equipped with stealth technology and advanced guidance systems, making it highly accurate and difficult to intercept. It functions on a "fire-and-forget" mechanism, requiring no further assistance once launched.
BrahMos combat performance
According to media reports, BrahMos was used for the first time in an active combat situation during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. Launched from Indian Air Force Sukhoi-30 MKI jets, nearly 15 missiles struck key Pakistani airbases, including Nur Khan. The attack reportedly destroyed multiple airbases and crippled Pakistan’s air defence infrastructure.
Which countries want to buy BrahMos?
Following its success in Operation Sindoor, several nations — including the Philippines, Vietnam, Brazil, Egypt, and the UAE — have shown interest in acquiring the missile. However, since it is a joint venture with Russia, India cannot export the missile freely without Moscow’s approval.
