BrahMos / Open-source illustrative photo

 

Thailand May Acquire Indian BrahMos Anti-Ship Missiles Amid Lack of Coastal Defense

The Indian-russian supersonic BrahMos anti-ship missiles have recently found new export customers, so Thailand may join the list amid announcements of defense cooperation

Thailand currently has no land-based coastal anti-ship systems in service. However, this may change, as it is reportedly evaluating the possible acquisition of Indian-russian Brahmos supersonic missiles to bolster its capabilities.

According to Defence Security Asia, discussions on such a procurement began following the tenth India–Thailand Defence Dialogue, a meeting between defense representatives of the two countries. However, official statements did not specifically mention this weapon system, providing only general details about the cooperation.

BrahMos ground launcher / Open-source illustrative photo

Media reports indicate that the negotiations are most likely still in the early stages. As of early August 2026, neither Bangkok nor BrahMos Aerospace, the missile's manufacturer, had officially announced the contract.

From Defense Express we would like to note that given the high degree of uncertainty surrounding the reports, it is difficult to say whether the purchase will ultimately go through. After all, evaluating a weapon system does not necessarily mean it will be ordered, as there are many factors that influence the final decision.

Thai Navy's HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej frigate / Photo credit: U.S. Navy

Currently, Thailand operates subsonic Harpoon and C-802A anti-ship missiles manufactured in the United States and China, respectively. They are deployed on frigates, corvettes, and offshore patrol vessels.

The arsenal also includes Swedish RBS 15 air-launched anti-ship missiles, which can be launched from JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets. The ground-based variant of these missiles is also known to be in service with the Ukrainian Navy.

RBS 15 anti-ship missile next to a fighter jet / Illustrative photo by Boerjelundin

It appears that, by acquiring BrahMos, Thailand would supplement its arsenal with land-based supersonic anti-ship missiles. However, BrahMos is also available in ship-based and air-launched variants. Their acquisition would raise the issue of launch platforms, as Thailand would either need to integrate the missiles into existing platforms or procure new ones.

Currently, India and the Philippines are the only operators of the BrahMos missile system. Indonesia has already placed an order, while Vietnam is reportedly planning to acquire it. The missiles were developed and are manufactured in cooperation with russia. They have a launch weight of 3,000 kg and a warhead weighing 300 kg. The export version of the BrahMos has a range of 300 km in accordance with international export control restrictions.