India is in the final stages of negotiating a second BrahMos cruise missile deal with the Philippines, estimated at $700 million to $800 million. It could cover about five systems and nearly 60 missiles, following a 2022 contract worth $375 million that is nearing completion.
India is close to securing a second, larger BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal with the Philippines, estimated at $700 million to $800 million. The proposed agreement could include five additional systems and nearly 60 missiles. Manila seeks the systems to bolster coastal defences amid South China Sea tensions with China.
The earlier contract
The first BrahMos export contract with the Philippines was signed in 2022 for $375 million, and India is nearing completion of deliveries under it. That earlier order was for naval use. The Philippines is the first BrahMos export customer. President Marcos Jr has expressed a desire for more BrahMos units.
Statements from Manila
Defence ministry spokesperson Arsenio Andolong told Reuters that Marcos had expressed his desire to procure additional BrahMos missiles, without revealing further details. A defence source told Reuters that Manila has shown interest again in procuring about five systems and views India as a very reliable partner. Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, speaking virtually at the Delhi Defence Dialogue on Wednesday, said Manila hoped to acquire more units. He said the Philippines had submitted a wish list to Indian authorities to adapt the system to the country's requirements.
Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio said Manila was very, very happy with its existing BrahMos systems and said further purchases remain possible. He added that procurement decisions rest with the defence establishment and military. Ignacio also said the Philippines was proud to be the first export customer for the missile technology.
Regional context
The Philippines is building its military strength as tensions escalate with Beijing over overlapping South China Sea claims, where the two countries have clashed in recent years. The proposed purchase comes as Manila steps up military modernisation and coastal defences. Its security concerns have grown amid territorial disputes with China.
About BrahMos
BrahMos, developed jointly by India and Russia, is among the world's fastest cruise missiles and can be launched from land, sea and air platforms. According to Reuters, India used it in combat for the first time during the four-day India-Pakistan conflict in 2025. Interest in the weapon has increased since Operation Sindoor, when India first used it in battle.
In July, India announced the supply of BrahMos missiles to Indonesia and signed an agreement with Vietnam. It is also in talks with the UAE, Thailand, South Africa and Brazil.
