Rajnath Singh Flags Off First BrahMos Missiles from Lucknow Unit
In a historic move to strengthen India’s defense capabilities, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles manufactured at the Lucknow facility of BrahMos Aerospace. Singh emphasized that the indigenously developed missile system ensures “each inch of Pakistan is within BrahMos’ reach,” marking a significant milestone in India’s defense manufacturing journey.
BrahMos Missile: A Game-Changer in Defense
The BrahMos missile, a joint venture between India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, is celebrated for its precision, speed, and destructive power. With a range of up to 450 kilometers and a speed of Mach 2.8, it ranks among the world’s most advanced missile systems. The Lucknow facility, operational since last year, is a cornerstone of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aimed at reducing foreign defense imports and boosting domestic production.
Strategic Importance of BrahMos
At the flag-off ceremony, Rajnath Singh underscored the missile’s strategic role in safeguarding India’s sovereignty. “BrahMos is not just a weapon; it’s a symbol of India’s self-reliance and technological prowess. Its deployment sends a clear message to adversaries that India is fully capable of defending itself,” he stated.
Boosting Defense Manufacturing and Economy
The Lucknow unit is expected to enhance India’s operational readiness while creating thousands of jobs and contributing to the local economy. The facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology, ensures the timely production and delivery of BrahMos missiles to both the Indian armed forces and international partners.
Global Interest in BrahMos
The missile system has already been inducted into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, attracting global interest. Notably, the Philippines recently signed a $375 million deal with India for BrahMos missiles, marking a significant step in India’s defense export ambitions.
Expert Insights
Dr. Rajesh Basrur, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore, praised BrahMos as a “force multiplier” for India’s armed forces. “Its supersonic speed and pinpoint accuracy make it a formidable deterrent,” he said.
A Step Towards Global Leadership
With the Lucknow unit operational, India is poised to become a global hub for defense manufacturing. As Rajnath Singh aptly concluded, “BrahMos reaffirms India’s position as a global power, capable of innovation and adaptation in an increasingly tense geopolitical landscape.”
