'Awe and Wonder': BrahMos CEO Hails Lethal Precision After Operation Sindoor Success
BrahMos Aerospace CEO Dr Jaiteerth Joshi hails the missile's lethal precision after Operation Sindoor and discusses future NG variants.
The BrahMos missile system has long been a subject of international fascination, but its recent deployment in active combat has shifted the global narrative from curiosity to awe. Dr Jaiteerth Joshi, the Managing Director and CEO of BrahMos Aerospace, has lauded the system's capabilities following its decisive role in Operation Sindoor, where it proved to be a formidable tool for modern, high-intensity warfare.
Combat Validation in Operation Sindoor
During Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces utilized the BrahMos weapon system in active warfare for the first time. The operation saw the missile striking critical adversary targets with deadly accuracy, including major Pakistani airbases such as Nur Khan.
Reflecting on the operation, Dr Joshi described the missile as an "enigma" and a highly evolved system designed for today's complex, multi-domain kinetic warfare. He emphasized that as India's unparalleled "first strike" weapon, the BrahMos has validated its supremacy through its unique combination of stealth, swiftness, agility, and lethal precision.
"The world has always been looking at BrahMos with awe and wonder. After ‘Operation Sindoor’, the incredibly versatile missile has proven that it is indeed an enigma... The BrahMos is not just a missile anymore; it is the power, precision and pride of a confident, self-reliant New India," Dr Joshi stated.
A Powerhouse for Defence Exports
The combat success in May 2025 has significantly bolstered India's position in the global arms market. The BrahMos system has become a cornerstone of India's defence export strategy, contributing to a total export value of Rs 38,400 crore, reflecting an impressive annual growth rate of 62.7%.
While the first historic multi-million-dollar export order arrived in 2022—even before the weapon was combat-tested—its "war-proven" status after Operation Sindoor has accelerated international interest. Following the initial deal with the Philippines, India has signed agreements with two additional countries in Southeast Asia this year. Deliveries to the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam are expected to push exports beyond $600 million.
The Road Ahead: BrahMos-NG and Extended Range
BrahMos Aerospace is not resting on its current laurels. The company is actively working on next-generation upgrades to maintain its edge in supersonic cruise missile technology.
BrahMos-NG (Next Generation)
Developed jointly by India's DRDO and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya, the BrahMos-NG will be a smaller, lighter, and stealthier version of the current missile. This variant is designed to significantly expand India's Air-Launched Strike Capability. Dr Joshi noted that the first prototype is expected by 2027 or 2028, as the project requires extensive R&D into advanced materials and higher indigenous content.
The 1,500-km Strike Variant
In addition to the NG version, the company is pursuing a range extension programme. While the missile has already surpassed its original 290-km strike ambit during various ground, sea, and air test firings, a 1,500-km range variant is now part of the future roadmap. This ambitious project is currently in the conceptual stage, with ongoing discussions between the joint venture partners for further system upgrades.