India's BrahMos missile—that hit Pakistan air bases—superior to China's air defences, says expert Sanjeev Srivastava

Defence expert Sanjeev Srivastava has underscored the unparalleled power of India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, referencing remarks by US defence analyst John Spencer, who stated that the missile's capabilities exceed those of China's advanced air defence systems.
India's BrahMos missile targetted Pakistan air bases in the recent conflict, giving 'a befitting reply' as part of Operation Sindoor which was justice served to those killed in Pahalgam attack on April 22.
'US defence expert John Spencer stated that India's BrahMos supersonic missile is so advanced that even China's air defence systems have been unable to intercept it. He noted that this highlights India's significant military edge, particularly in its operations against Pakistan, where the failure of Pakistan's HQ-9B air defence system was exposed," Sanjeev said.
He mentioned, 'Spencer added that India's successful retaliatory strikes using BrahMos missiles demonstrated their effectiveness, generating global interest in the weapon. The India-Russia collaboration on the BrahMos missile has proven to be a major success, with the system now being exported to other countries as well.'
The BrahMos missile system is known for its long-range capability in an initial range of 290 km. It can be launched from submarines, ships, fighter aircraft or TE. It has strengthened India's role in defense diplomacy through its Cruise Missile Triad, enabling precision strikes on land and sea targets; its Deterrent Capability, enhancing India's defense posture with supersonic speed and extended range; and its Indo-Russian Collaboration, highlighting successful bilateral cooperation in defense technology.
Among other features is reaching supersonic speeds, cruising close to Mach 3; there are versions being developed for up to 800 km and advanced guidance, including the stealth technology for precise targetting.
It has seen major upgrades and testing of extended-range versions like the BrahMos-ER. The BrahMos-II, capable of reaching speeds of Mach 7–8, is currently in development, while the BrahMos-NG—a smaller, stealthier variant with a reduced radar cross-section—is also being developed to enhance overall capabilities.
While speaking on India's foreign policy and defence strategy, the defence expert stated that it is independent without the influence by Western pressure, citing the government's resolute approach during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
He added, 'India's new government does not operate under the influence or pressure of Western nations. When the Russia-Ukraine war began, the United States and several other countries tried to persuade India to scale back its bilateral relations with Russia. However, India stood firm and maintained its independent stance. India's diplomatic engagements and defence strategies are guided by national interests and remain free from external influence.'

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