Anwar confirms Malaysia exploring acquisition of India’s BrahMos missile system

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (left) is received by his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, to attend the 18th Brics Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, India, today. — Bernama pic

First Published: Sunday, 13 Sep 2026 1:50 PM MYT

NEW DELHI, Sept 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that Malaysia is exploring the possibility of acquiring India’s BrahMos air-to-surface missile system, while emphasising that discussions are still ongoing and no final decision has been made.

In an interview with India’s NDTV, he said discussion on it took place during the bilateral meeting with his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, but the rightful decision maker would be Malaysia’s Air Force.

“(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.

“They have had initial discussions and 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.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, acknowledged India’s defence capabilities.

The BrahMos is a long-range, ramjet-powered supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, fighter aircraft or transporter erector launcher.

It is a joint venture between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Russian Federation’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, who together formed BrahMos Aerospace. — Bernama