India’s defense exports, particularly the BrahMos missile system, are gaining traction in Southeast Asia amid rising military spending in the region. According to analysts, countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia are increasingly targeting India’s advanced missile capabilities, which fly at nearly three times the speed of sound and boast a range of 450-800 kilometers.
The interest in BrahMos has been heightened by successful sales, including a significant $375 million deal with the Philippines finalized in April 2024 and recent agreements with Vietnam and Indonesia. As Southeast Asian nations continue to modernize their militaries against a backdrop of increasing tensions, especially concerning China, India’s missile system is seen as a strong fit for their defense strategies.
The growing demand for defense hardware in Southeast Asia—from $67.1 billion in military spending in 2025—positions India to possibly secure a larger share of this market. Analysts suggest that this growth will depend on India’s capacity to meet the diverse needs of these countries while navigating existing strong relationships they have with traditional suppliers like the U.S., China, and Russia.
Despite India’s progress, challenges remain. The country must enhance its research and development capabilities and establish more localized support systems to compete effectively against established defense suppliers. The prevailing strategy for success will involve not just selling weapons but also building durable industrial partnerships through technology transfers and joint production agreements.
India’s diplomatic efforts are also pivotal. By positioning itself as a neutral and reliable partner, it aims to offer Southeast Asian countries an alternative to existing suppliers while ensuring they don’t over-rely on any single nation.
Why this story matters:
- It highlights India’s growing role in the regional defense market amid geopolitical tensions.
Key takeaway:
- Success will depend on India’s ability to build long-term partnerships and meet regional defense needs.
Opposing viewpoint:
- Despite potential, India’s existing relationships with ASEAN countries may hinder its aspirations as a defense supplier compared to entrenched competitors.
