Philippines Bolsters Defense Ties with India Amid Regional Tensions
NEW DELHI: As the Indian government prepares to welcome Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Manila has shown keen interest in acquiring additional defense equipment from India. This development follows the successful delivery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines earlier this year, marking a significant step in bilateral defense cooperation.
The Philippines, aiming to modernize its armed forces, views India as a reliable partner due to the affordability and quality of its defense products. General Romeo Brawner Jr., chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), emphasized this during a recent interview with the Philippine News Agency aboard the Indian naval tanker INS Shakti. Brawner highlighted that Indian equipment offers high quality at a lower cost compared to other international suppliers, making it an attractive option for Manila’s defense needs. While specific details about the equipment under consideration were not disclosed for security reasons, Brawner confirmed ongoing orders for additional systems.
This growing partnership aligns with broader efforts to strengthen military ties between the two nations. India and the Philippines are planning a bilateral maritime cooperative activity in the West Philippine Sea, coinciding with President Marcos Jr.’s visit to India from August 4 to 8. General Brawner described the joint exercise, involving the Philippine Navy and three Indian Navy ships INS Mysore, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti as a demonstration of unity and solidarity. The activity, the first of its kind in the region, underscores both countries’ commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
India’s defense exports to the Philippines began with a $375 million deal in January 2022 for three BrahMos anti-ship coastal missile batteries, with deliveries starting this year. This contract has paved the way for further collaboration, with Manila expressing interest in additional purchases, including the Akash missile system. As tensions in the South China Sea persist, the Philippines’ push for enhanced defense capabilities highlights India’s growing role as a key supplier in the region.