Philippines Negotiates $800 Million BrahMos Missile Deal With India

The Philippines is in final-stage negotiations with India to purchase five additional BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems and nearly 60 missiles in a deal valued between $700 million and $800 million. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro announced the pursuit of these assets during the Third Delhi Defence Dialogue on November 4, noting that Manila has provided a wish list of modifications to ensure the systems are tailor-fitted for the country's specific geography and limited infrastructure.

This potential acquisition expands on a 2022 contract worth $375 million for three shore-based batteries, with deliveries having begun in April 2024. To integrate these capabilities, the Philippines established a BrahMos site at the Philippine Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in Zambales and has conducted maritime-strike training with the United States Marines.

The procurement effort follows a strategic partnership established during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s visit to India in August 2025. The missiles are intended to create asymmetric deterrence and anti-access/area denial capabilities to protect sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea amid ongoing territorial disputes with China. Beyond the cruise missiles, Manila has identified India as a potential partner for its military satellite program and air defense systems.