**India Signs Missile Deals with Fellow BRICS Member Indonesia**
India has solidified its defense and economic ties with Indonesia through a significant agreement that includes the sale of supersonic BrahMos cruise missiles and Astra air-to-air missiles. This deal was finalized during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to Indonesia, marking a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
On Tuesday, Modi was honored with Indonesia's highest distinction, the Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia, by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. This recognition underscores the growing partnership between India and Indonesia, which was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018. Notably, Modi's visit is the first by an Indian prime minister to Indonesia since this elevation.
The BrahMos missile, named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers, is recognized as one of the fastest supersonic cruise missiles globally. The agreement signed by Modi and Subianto includes not only the missile deal but also provisions for additional BrahMos batteries to be supplied to Jakarta. The BrahMos missiles have gained international attention, particularly following their use by India in a brief conflict with Pakistan last year, referred to as Operation Sindoor.
In addition to the BrahMos, the Astra missile—developed by India's Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO)—is a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile that has also seen operational use by the Indian Air Force during the same conflict. The inclusion of these advanced weaponry systems in the deal signifies India's expanding defense export ambitions.
Modi's visit to Indonesia also yielded agreements focused on critical minerals and maritime cooperation. India plans to invest in various sectors, including steel manufacturing, nickel, and rare-earth magnets, as part of its strategy to enhance its minerals supply chain. This investment is expected to bolster economic ties and promote mutual growth between the two countries.
Furthermore, India and Indonesia agreed to jointly develop Sabang Port, located at Indonesia's northernmost tip near the strategic Strait of Malacca. This port is of particular importance to India, situated just 160 kilometers from the Great Nicobar project, which aims to transform the island into a significant strategic and economic hub.
As both nations continue to strengthen their collaboration, the recent agreements highlight a mutual commitment to enhancing defense capabilities and fostering economic growth. The missile deals and investments in critical sectors are expected to further solidify the partnership between India and Indonesia within the framework of BRICS cooperation.