By A Correspondent

New Delhi: India today decided to buy dual-role BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for the navy, providing an impetus to the indigenous defence manufacturing mission set by the government.

The deal was signed between the Ministry of Defence and BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) here for acquisition of the surface-to-surface missiles at a cost of Rs 1,700 crore ($210 million), an official statement said.

This contract signing provided “further impetus to (the) Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence production,” the ministry said, noting that this procurement was being done under the ‘Buy-Indian’ category of the defence procurement procedure.

“Induction of these dual-role capable missiles is going to significantly enhance the operational capability of Indian Navy fleet assets,” it said.

BAPL is a Joint Venture between India and Russia. The two nations made crucial technological contributions to augment the new generation surface-to-surface missiles with enhanced range and dual role capability for land as well as anti-ship attacks.

“This contract is going to give further boost to indigenous production of critical weapon system and ammunition with active participation of indigenous industry,” the ministry said.

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