India has taken a major step in its defence export journey by delivering the second battery of its supersonic BrahMos missile system to the Philippines, reinforcing not only bilateral ties but also its position in the global arms export market. This development is part of a Rs. 3,202 crore (approximately US$ 375 million) agreement signed in 2022, marking a significant achievement for India’s defence sector.

India-Philippines Defence Deal: A Strategic Breakthrough

The BrahMos missile export deal between India and the Philippines was a landmark agreement when it was first inked in 2022. The latest delivery via sea further solidifies India’s reputation as a reliable defence partner in the Indo-Pacific region, a zone witnessing increasing geopolitical competition, particularly due to China’s growing assertiveness.

This shipment represents the second of three batteries committed under the contract. Each BrahMos battery typically consists of mobile autonomous launchers, command posts, and radar systems, providing significant strategic firepower to the Philippines Armed Forces.

About BrahMos Missile: India’s Supersonic Power

The BrahMos missile is a joint development between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia. The name "BrahMos" is derived from the names of two rivers: the Brahmaputra in India and the Moskva in Russia.

Key features of BrahMos:

• Speed: Can fly at speeds close to Mach 2.8 (almost three times the speed of sound).

• Versatility: Can be launched from land, sea, and air platforms, making it one of the most adaptable missile systems in the world.

• Range: Earlier variants had a range of 290 km, but newer versions now extend to 400 km and beyond.

• Indigenisation: India has successfully indigenised 83% of the missile’s components, reducing reliance on foreign systems and bolstering local manufacturing.

Boosting India's Defence Export Vision

India has been actively promoting its domestic defence manufacturing under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The BrahMos export marks a turning point in that mission. As of now, India is the only country with a supersonic cruise missile in active service, offering a clear advantage in the global arms trade.

By exporting such advanced missile systems, India is stepping up as a credible arms supplier, capable of meeting the defence needs of friendly foreign nations. This is in line with India's goal to reach US$ 5 billion in annual defence exports by 2025.

Global Interest in BrahMos: A Wider Reach Ahead

The Philippines may be the first foreign buyer of BrahMos, but it certainly won't be the last. Multiple nations, including:

• Indonesia

• Vietnam

• Malaysia

• UAE

• Chile

• South Africa

...have shown strong interest in acquiring BrahMos systems for their own defence needs.

This interest highlights the increasing relevance of India as a defence exporter, particularly in areas of high strategic tension like Southeast Asia, where counterbalancing China’s military influence is a top priority.

Strategic Importance in Southeast Asia

The delivery of BrahMos to the Philippines Navy and Coastal Defence Forces sends a powerful message in the South China Sea region, where China’s naval expansion has raised security concerns for several ASEAN nations. The deployment of a supersonic missile system by a relatively small military like the Philippines could be a significant deterrent.

This deal also positions India as a strategic partner in Southeast Asia’s security landscape, fostering stronger diplomatic ties through military-to-military cooperation.

BrahMos: A Catalyst in India-Russia Collaboration

Beyond its export value, BrahMos is a model for successful Indo-Russian collaboration in advanced weaponry. Despite global shifts in defence alignments and growing Western influence in India's military purchases, Russia remains a vital partner through such projects.

India’s ability to indigenise 83% of the components, including launch platforms, guidance systems, and fuel technology, also points to sustainable co-development efforts—crucial for long-term technological independence.

Enhancing India's Diplomatic and Defence Posture

The BrahMos deal goes beyond military utility. It serves India’s larger diplomatic goals in the Indo-Pacific, where countries are increasingly turning to New Delhi for partnerships amidst rising tensions with China. This also supports India’s ‘Act East’ policy, which aims to deepen economic and strategic cooperation with Southeast Asian nations.

In recent years, India has also participated in joint naval exercises and maritime dialogues with ASEAN countries, further integrating defence diplomacy with foreign policy.

Conclusion: India Rising as a Global Defence Supplier

India’s second delivery of the BrahMos missile system to the Philippines is not just about fulfilling a contract—it symbolizes a coming-of-age moment for Indian defence exports. With cutting-edge systems, a focus on indigenisation, and growing interest from global buyers, India is well on its way to becoming a key player in the international arms market.

As more countries look to diversify their defence partnerships and avoid over-reliance on traditional suppliers, India’s blend of affordability, reliability, and strategic alignment makes it an attractive option.

Expect to see more such deals in the future, potentially involving co-production agreements or localised manufacturing in partner countries—further boosting India’s defence and geopolitical clout.

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