The Philippines is seeking to acquire additional BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems from India, with plans to adapt the equipment to the country’s geographical and logistical requirements.
Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr confirmed the request during the third Delhi Defence Dialogue on November 4. He said Manila had shared a list of requirements with Indian authorities to make the missile systems better suited to Philippine conditions.
Teodoro cited the challenges of transporting military equipment across an archipelago of more than 7,600 islands. Limited road and railway infrastructure also creates difficulties in moving large defence systems between locations.
The Philippines signed its first BrahMos purchase agreement with India in January 2022, worth approximately US$375 million. The contract covered three batteries of the shore-based anti-ship missile system for the Philippine Marine Corps. Deliveries under that agreement are nearing completion.
India is now in advanced discussions to supply additional systems. Reports indicate that the Philippines could purchase around five systems, comprising nearly 60 missiles, in a deal estimated at US700milliontoUS800 million.
The BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile developed jointly by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia. It can be launched from land, ships, submarines and aircraft.
The Philippines has been strengthening its military capabilities amid tensions in the South China Sea. Additional coastal defence systems would support its efforts to protect maritime territory and improve deterrence.
The proposed purchase would also deepen India’s defence exports and its military partnership with Manila.
