Philippines considers $800 million Indian missile deal

India and the Philippines are engaged in final-stage negotiations to expand their sale of supersonic BrahMos cruise missiles, according to sources familiar with the matter. The potential deal, valued at $700 million to $800 million, would involve the Philippines acquiring approximately five systems, totaling around 60 missiles, as New Delhi nears completion of deliveries under a previous 2022 agreement.

The Philippines has shown renewed interest in procuring the BrahMos missiles, viewing India as a dependable partner, according to an Indian source. This latest potential deal is significantly larger than India's previous $375 million order of BrahMos missiles for naval use. The BrahMos missile, co-developed by India and Russia, is one of the fastest cruise missiles globally and can be launched from various platforms.

The Philippines' Defense Ministry spokesperson confirmed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's desire to acquire additional BrahMos missiles, though no further details were provided. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro revealed during a virtual appearance at the Delhi Defence Dialogue that Manila hopes to secure more BrahMos units and has submitted a wish list to Indian authorities for customization of the system for the Philippine environment.

This potential deal comes amid heightened tensions between Manila and Beijing over overlapping claims in the South China Sea, where both nations have engaged in recent conflicts. India has recently supplied BrahMos missiles to Indonesia and has signed a deal with Vietnam. Talks are also underway with other countries like the UAE, Thailand, South Africa, and Brazil.

India's defense exports, totaling 384.24 billion rupees ($4.11 billion) for the fiscal year ending March, have surged by over 62% compared to the previous year.