Philippines to buy 60 BrahMos missiles from India

The Philippines is set to buy 60 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles from India under a proposed deal worth $800 million, as Manila seeks to strengthen its coastal defence capabilities amid tensions with China in the South China Sea.

A report said the agreement between New Delhi and Manila is at an advanced stage. Under the proposed deal, the Philippines plans to acquire around five BrahMos missile systems.

This would be the second BrahMos deal between the two countries. In 2022, the Philippines signed a $375 million agreement to buy three missile batteries from India.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has expressed interest in acquiring more BrahMos missiles, according to Defence Ministry spokesperson Arsenio Andolong.

Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro also confirmed the country's interest in expanding its missile stockpile, saying Manila had submitted a wishlist to India to customise the systems according to its requirements.

Developed jointly by India and Russia, BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile capable of being launched from land, sea and air platforms. It is among the world's fastest cruise missiles.

The Philippines has been strengthening its military capabilities amid ongoing territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea. India, meanwhile, is seeking to expand its defence exports, with discussions and agreements involving several countries.

-AJM