China's rival Philippines eyeing more BrahMos as president Marcos visits India on five day trip

President of the Philippines Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will arrive in New Delhi on Monday for a five-day State Visit to India. This will be his first visit to the country since assuming office. He will be accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and a high-level delegation comprising Cabinet Ministers, other dignitaries, senior officials, and business representatives.

Defence and maritime cooperation high on agenda

President Marcos is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. Discussions are expected to focus on defence, maritime security, and trade cooperation. The President has shown interest in acquiring additional defence equipment from India.

In April, India delivered the second batch of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines, part of a $375 million agreement signed in 2022 for three BrahMos missile batteries. Philippine Air Force Chief Romeo Brawner said the country is exploring further purchases of Indian defence systems due to their "quality and affordability." Two more sets of the Indo-Russian BrahMos missile are expected to arrive over the next few years.

Regional tensions and growing partnerships

The Philippines continues to face maritime disputes with China in the South China Sea, referred to domestically as the West Philippine Sea. In response, it is strengthening its defence partnerships with India and Japan to promote stability in the region.

Trade crosses $3 billion, more economic cooperation planned

Bilateral trade between India and the Philippines has surpassed $3 billion. Both nations are seeking to enhance their trade relationship, including efforts to finalise a deal with the United States, which currently imposes tariffs of 25% on Indian goods and 19% on Philippine products.

India’s expanding defence outreach in Southeast Asia

In addition to the Philippines, two other ASEAN countries are reportedly in talks with India regarding the BrahMos missile. Indonesia is negotiating a potential $450 million deal, while Vietnam is considering a $625 million agreement. In 2022, India also supplied Vietnam with 12 high-speed guard boats under a $100 million line of credit, reflecting expanding defence cooperation.

(With inputs from TOI)