India exported BrahMos missile for the first time: First consignment handed over to Philippines, will be deployed in South China Sea; Deal worth Rs 3130 crore

India handed over the first batch

of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines on Friday (April 19). Philippines is the first foreign country to get BrahMos. India had signed a deal worth $375 million (Rs 3130 crore) for the sale of BrahMos missile to the Philippines in January 2022. How many missiles India gave to the Philippines is not yet known.

The Indian Air Force handed over these missiles to the Philippines Marine Corps through C-17 Globe Master aircraft. The speed of these missiles is 2.8 Mach and the range is 290 km. One Mach is the speed of sound 332 meters per second.

The Philippines has received the delivery of the missile system at a time when tensions are rising between it and China in the South China Sea. Philippines will deploy 3 BrahMos missile systems in coastal areas (South China Sea) to deal with the threat from China.

Each system of BrahMos has two missile launchers, a radar and a command and control center. Through this, two BrahMos missiles can be fired at the enemy within 10 seconds from submarine, ship, aircraft. Apart from this, India will also give training to Philippines in operating missiles.

Why did the Philippines buy BrahMos missiles? The Philippines has had several clashes with China recently in the South China Sea. BrahMos missiles will increase the power of the Philippines in the sea and will also prevent China's growing influence in the sea.

Benefits to India from the deal

According to media reports, this deal with the Philippines will help in making the country an exporter in the defense sector and promoting self-reliant India. This deal will also boost the morale of the military industry and India will also be seen as a reliable exporter in South-East Asia. Also, this deal will strengthen India-Philippines relations and will send a message to China of the unity of the two countries.