SOURCE: AFI

In a strategic move aimed at expanding its defense exports, India is preparing to officially offer its indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, armed with the forthcoming BrahMos-NG anti-ship missiles, to the Indonesian Air Force. This combination deal is poised to address Indonesia’s critical need for enhanced maritime surveillance and defense, given its expansive maritime domain.
Indonesia, with the world’s sixth-largest exclusive economic zone (EEZ) spanning over 6 million square kilometers, places a high priority on safeguarding its maritime sovereignty against violations. The integration of the LCA Tejas, a lightweight, multi-role fighter aircraft, with the BrahMos-NG, a miniaturized version of the renowned BrahMos missile, offers a potent solution for monitoring and defending these vast waters.
The LCA Tejas, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is known for its agility, modern avionics, and cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive option for air forces looking for advanced yet affordable combat solutions. The BrahMos-NG, or Next Generation, is designed to be lighter, more versatile, and capable of being deployed from various platforms, including the LCA Tejas, which will significantly enhance Indonesia’s anti-ship capabilities.
This ‘combo offer’ not only showcases India’s capabilities in defense manufacturing but also aims at fostering deeper defense ties between the two nations. The BrahMos-NG, currently under development, promises a range of 290 km and can travel at Mach 3.5, offering substantial deterrent power against naval threats. This missile’s air-launched variant will be particularly beneficial for Indonesia, providing its air force with a significant boost in operational reach and effectiveness over its extensive maritime borders.
The decision to offer this package deal comes at a time when Indonesia is actively seeking to upgrade its military hardware to address current and future security challenges in the region. The strategic partnership could also lead to joint ventures, technology transfers, and further collaborations in defense manufacturing, benefiting both countries.