Vietnam to Acquire India’s BrahMos Missile Amid Regional Security Concerns

Vietnam Confirms Purchase of BrahMos Missile

Vietnam is poised to become the second international buyer of India’s BrahMos cruise missile. This development highlights ongoing security concerns in Asia regarding China’s military expansion. The transaction, long discussed but not previously validated, was confirmed by Indian Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on May 30 at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. A similar arrangement with Indonesia is also close to being finalized.

Despite being close trading partners and having improved diplomatic relations, Vietnam is cautious of China’s growing military strength and territorial ambitions, particularly in the South China Sea.

India’s Strategic Partnerships in Asia

The agreement reflects India’s strategy to strengthen defense collaborations within Southeast Asia. This approach aligns with India’s ‘Act East’ policy aimed at enhancing ties throughout the region. India’s success with the BrahMos system demonstrates its growing influence.

The BrahMos Supersonic Missile

The BrahMos, co-developed with Russia, is one of the fastest operational cruise missiles available. The export version has a range of about 180 miles and reaches nearly three times the speed of sound, making interception difficult.

Vietnam will acquire a shore-based version of the missile, enhancing its ability to target hostile naval units near its coastline. Retired Commodore Seshadri Vasan noted the missile’s proven effectiveness within the Indian military’s various platforms.

The Philippines first operated the BrahMos system in 2024 amid its $35 billion military modernization. This initiative is partly driven by territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.

A Strategic Deterrent for Vietnam

Despite Vietnam’s heated historical disputes with China, such as over the Paracel Islands and claims in the Gulf of Tonkin, its conflicts have generally been less overt than those of the Philippines. Still, ongoing tensions exist.

According to Huong Le-Thu of the International Crisis Group, Vietnam is pursuing diversified defense partnerships while maintaining some rapport with China. Yet, China’s advancing power remains a concern, especially for nations like Vietnam.

China’s defense capabilities surpass those associated with the BrahMos system, which leverages Russian technologies familiar to Chinese military planners.

India’s Expanding Influence

India’s agreement with Vietnam signifies continued progress in its ‘Act East’ policy, aiming to fortify ties within East and Southeast Asia while counterbalancing China’s influence. India’s role within the Quad with the United States, Japan, and Australia has also grown.

Vietnam views India as a strategic partner; both countries prioritize autonomy and traditionally avoid formal alliances. However, Vietnam recognizes that alliances with India cannot fully substitute for the United States’ security role in the region.