Every Inch of Pakistan Within BrahMos Missile Range: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says every inch of Pakistan is now within BrahMos missile range; Lucknow facility boosts India’s indigenous defence capabilities and exports.

New Delhi, Oct 19: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday declared that every inch of Pakistan is now within the range of India’s BrahMos cruise missile, describing Operation Sindoor against the neighbouring country as “just a trailer.”

Speaking about the role of BrahMos during the hostilities with Pakistan in May, Singh said the missile has proven itself far beyond trials, emerging as a powerful symbol of national security. “Operation Sindoor is proof that victory has become a habit for us. The operation was just a trailer and has made Pakistan realise what might follow,” he added.

The Defence Minister, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, flagged off the first batch of BrahMos missiles manufactured at the BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility Centre in Lucknow. This state-of-the-art facility, part of the UP Defence Industrial Corridor, was virtually inaugurated in May, and the first batch of missiles was ready within five months.

Describing BrahMos as more than a missile, Singh said it represents India’s growing indigenous defence capabilities. “The missile combines a traditional warhead with an advanced guided system capable of striking long distances at supersonic speeds. This makes BrahMos one of the best systems in the world and the backbone of our Armed Forces,” he said.

Singh highlighted India’s emerging role as a defence technology leader, noting the export of BrahMos to the Philippines and ongoing collaborations with other countries. “India is now a giver, not just a taker. This is the true identity of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” he said, emphasising the government’s vision for a self-reliant India by 2047.

He added that the BrahMos team has recently signed contracts worth around Rs 4,000 crore with two countries. The Lucknow facility, spread over 200 acres and built at a cost of Rs 380 crore, is expected to produce around 100 missile systems annually, with a projected turnover of Rs 3,000 crore and GST collection of Rs 500 crore from the next financial year.

Stressing the importance of strengthening local industries, Singh said India must develop technologies and components domestically to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. “Whether it is advanced seekers or ramjet engines, all types of technologies must be indigenously developed to ensure supply chains remain within India,” he said.

The Defence Minister called for a structured roadmap to integrate small entrepreneurs into the defence ecosystem, stating that the success of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor depends on the growth of small industries alongside large companies. “UP is poised to become a manufacturing hub and a new epicentre of innovation and employment for entrepreneurs,” he added.