Malaysia is exploring the possibility of acquiring India’s BrahMos air-to-surface missile system, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed, signalling another step towards strengthening the defence relationship between the two countries.
Speaking in an interview with India’s NDTV, Anwar said the potential acquisition was discussed during his bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, he made it clear that discussions are still at an early stage and Malaysia has not made any final decision.
The Prime Minister explained that while he supports the idea, the responsibility for assessing the system and deciding whether it is suitable for Malaysia rests with the country’s Air Force and relevant defence agencies.
“We did discuss, but normally my position is always to get the departments or agencies concerned, those having the expertise in the Air Force, they should then continue,” Anwar said.
He added that initial discussions had already taken place and that he had expressed his support to Prime Minister Modi. For Anwar, the growing relationship between Malaysia and India is built on trust, and closer cooperation across different fields can help strengthen that connection.
“I told Prime Minister Modi that I am very supportive of that because this relationship is build on trust and we want to cement it in all fields,” he said.
His comments highlight Malaysia’s interest in exploring defence capabilities from India while allowing technical experts to determine the next steps. Rather than announcing a confirmed purchase, the government appears focused on evaluating the system and considering how it may fit Malaysia’s defence requirements.
The BrahMos is a long-range, ramjet-powered supersonic cruise missile capable of being launched from submarines, ships, fighter aircraft and transporter erector launchers. Its range of launch platforms makes it a significant defence system with applications across different military environments.
The missile was developed through a joint venture between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, which together established BrahMos Aerospace.
Anwar, who also serves as Malaysia’s Finance Minister, acknowledged India’s defence capabilities as the two nations continue to build closer bilateral relations. Any potential acquisition, however, will depend on further discussions, technical assessments and the decision-making process within Malaysia’s defence establishment.
A Human Perspective
For Malaysia, this discussion is about more than a missile system. It reflects a country carefully considering how to strengthen its national security while building trusted partnerships with other nations.
Defence decisions carry long-term consequences. They involve technology, responsibility, national priorities and the safety of the people a government is elected to serve. As Malaysia and India continue their discussions, the most important outcome will be a decision that is thoughtful, well-assessed and aligned with Malaysia’s future.
The possibility of acquiring the BrahMos system is still being explored, but the broader message is clear: Malaysia is looking at new opportunities to strengthen its defence capabilities and deepen its relationship with India.
Source: Bernama
