Hanoi, September 5 - Vietnam’s pursuit of advanced military capabilities has taken a significant step forward as the Vietnam People’s Air Force (VPAF) explores the integration of the BrahMos-A supersonic cruise missile into its fleet of 36 Su-30MKM fighter jets, following Malaysia’s lead in engaging with Indian defense firms for this cutting-edge technology. The BrahMos-A, an air-launched variant of the Indo-Russian BrahMos missile, is renowned for its Mach 2.8-3.0 speed, 450-500 km range, and precision strike capabilities, making it a game-changer for modern air forces. Vietnam’s interest in this missile system stems from the Indian Air Force’s successful deployment of BrahMos-A on its Su-30MKI jets, notably during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, where it demonstrated unparalleled effectiveness against high-value targets. The VPAF’s inquiry focuses on the technical and cost-related aspects of modifying its Su-30MKM aircraft, which share a similar design with India’s Su-30MKI, to accommodate the 2.5-ton missile. This move signals Vietnam’s intent to bolster its strategic deterrence, particularly in the contested South China Sea region, where maritime security remains a critical concern.
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The integration of BrahMos-A into Vietnam’s Su-30MKM fleet would require substantial modifications, including airframe hardening, reinforced undercarriages, and advanced avionics upgrades to handle the missile’s weight and launch dynamics. Indian companies, such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and BrahMos Aerospace, have already briefed Vietnamese authorities on these requirements, drawing from their experience in adapting India’s Su-30MKI fleet. The process is complex, with each aircraft modification potentially taking 12-18 months, as evidenced by India’s own integration timeline. The BrahMos-A’s ability to strike both maritime and land-based targets with pinpoint accuracy, combined with its low-altitude terminal phase flight at 10-15 meters, makes it a formidable weapon for Vietnam. This capability would enhance the VPAF’s ability to conduct long-range precision strikes without entering hostile airspace, a critical advantage in potential conflicts involving contested maritime zones. Vietnam’s decision to explore this integration aligns with its broader defense modernization efforts, as it seeks to reduce reliance on Russian military technology and diversify its defense partnerships.
The strategic implications of Vietnam adopting the BrahMos-A are profound, particularly in the context of regional security dynamics. The missile’s deployment on Su-30MKM jets would significantly strengthen Vietnam’s deterrence posture against potential threats in the South China Sea, where tensions with China have escalated due to territorial disputes. The BrahMos-A’s supersonic speed and low radar cross-section make it difficult to intercept, offering Vietnam a credible counter to advanced air defense systems. Furthermore, Vietnam’s interest in BrahMos extends beyond air-launched variants, as it has finalized a $700 million deal for shore-based anti-ship missile batteries, similar to those acquired by the Philippines. This dual approach—integrating BrahMos-A into its air force and deploying coastal defense systems—positions Vietnam to create a multi-layered defense strategy, enhancing its maritime domain awareness and operational flexibility in contested waters.
Vietnam’s exploration of BrahMos-A integration underscores deepening defense ties with India, a key partner in its quest for advanced military capabilities. The collaboration with HAL and BrahMos Aerospace not only facilitates technology transfer but also strengthens India’s position as a global defense exporter. As Vietnam moves forward with feasibility studies and cost assessments, the potential integration of BrahMos-A into its Su-30MKM fleet could mark a transformative leap in its airpower capabilities. This development, following Malaysia’s similar pursuit, highlights the growing appeal of the BrahMos missile system in Southeast Asia, where nations are increasingly prioritizing advanced, versatile weaponry to address evolving security challenges. For Vietnam, equipping its Su-30MKM fleet with BrahMos-A would not only enhance its tactical capabilities but also send a strong message of strategic resolve in a geopolitically volatile region.