New Delhi, Oct 22: BrahMos Aerospace expects to develop the first prototype of its next-generation BrahMos-NG supersonic cruise missile by 2027-28, as India looks to strengthen its defence capabilities and expand its presence in the global arms market.

The smaller, lighter and stealthier missile is under development and will feature higher indigenous content, advanced materials and new technologies, requiring extensive research and development, the company's Chief Executive Officer (CEO­) and Managing Director, Dr Jaiteerth Joshi, said.

In an interview with ANI, Joshi said the company was also pursuing a phased range-extension programme, with a 1,500-km variant currently at the conceptual stage. The missile has demonstrated capabilities beyond its initial 290-km strike range through tests conducted from land, sea and air platforms.

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BrahMos has attracted growing international interest following its combat deployment during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. Joshi said countries operating the Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft had expressed interest in the air-launched missile, while several others had shown interest in BrahMos-NG, which will initially be developed in an airborne configuration. The company is in discussions with interested parties.

BrahMos exports poised to grow over $600 million amid rising global interest

BrahMos has emerged as a key component of India's defence export strategy, with deals involving the Philippines and two other Southeast Asian countries secured this year. Orders and deliveries involving the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam are expected to take the missile's exports beyond $600 million.

The broader momentum in defence manufacturing is reflected in India's defence exports, which have reached Rs 38,400 crore, registering annual growth of 62.7%. BrahMos is contributing to this expansion while strengthening the country's position as a supplier of advanced military technology.

To meet rising demand, the company plans to expand its supplier base for systems and sub-systems from one or two sources to 45, improving production capacity and encouraging competition on quality and cost. Its facilities in Hyderabad, Nagpur, Pilani and Lucknow are working to deliver on the existing orders from the Indian Armed Forces.

BrahMos Aerospace also plans to accelerate research and development by establishing specialised technology facilities to support next-generation missile development. Meanwhile, on October 6, the Defence Ministry signed a contract with BrahMos Aerospace for fire control systems and launchers for Indian Navy ships. With a minimum indigenous content of 68%, the project is expected to create opportunities for Indian industries, including micro, small and medium enterprises.

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As it advances next-generation missile development and expands its manufacturing ecosystem, BrahMos is positioning itself as both a strategic defence asset and a driver of India's defence industrial growth. (With ANI inputs)