India will supply its BrahMos cruise missile system and the Astra air-to-air missile to Indonesia, an Indian government official said on Tuesday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Southeast Asian nation is set to deepen strategic and defence cooperation between the two countries.
Modi is on a three-day visit to Indonesia from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. The trip marks the first bilateral visit since India and Indonesia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018 and is expected to produce several key strategic outcomes.
According to the official, Indonesia has decided to acquire India's Astra air-to-air missiles after being impressed by their demonstrated performance during Operation Sindoor.
India will also help Indonesia expand its BrahMos missile capability by supplying additional missile batteries, further reinforcing defence ties between the two countries.
In another major initiative, India has agreed to assist Indonesia in developing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) tailored to the country's requirements, reflecting Jakarta's confidence in India's election management system.
Beyond defence cooperation, the two nations are expected to strengthen collaboration in the critical minerals sector. India is set to invest in manufacturing facilities for steel, nickel and rare-earth permanent magnets in Indonesia as part of efforts to build resilient supply chains.
Maritime cooperation is also expected to receive a significant boost, with both sides planning to jointly develop Sabang Port. Located near the Strait of Malacca and around 100 miles from India's Great Nicobar port project, the port is expected to enhance regional connectivity and strengthen maritime security cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Jakarta's Istana Merdeka, the Presidential Palace, where he held talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The two leaders exchanged greetings, shook hands and Modi signed the presidential guestbook.
Earlier in the day, Modi's aircraft was escorted by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets as it entered Indonesian airspace. On arrival in Jakarta, President Prabowo personally welcomed the Prime Minister at the airport, where a traditional cultural dance performance was held in his honour.
The Ministry of External Affairs described the visit as an important milestone in further advancing the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and expanding cooperation across a range of priority sectors.
Also Read | Trump Again Offers to Help End Ukraine War in "Businesslike" Call With Putin
