The Philippines is actively pursuing military equipment from India, focusing on helicopters, submarines, and fighter aircraft. This initiative aims to enhance its defense capabilities amidst escalating tensions with China in the South China Sea.
General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, expressed Manila’s interest in bolstering defense cooperation with India during discussions at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 held in New Delhi. This move is part of the Philippines’ broader strategy for military modernization.
Amidst these developments, General Brawner underscored the rising confrontations between Filipino and Chinese vessels. He accused the Chinese Coast Guard of harassing Filipino fishermen and obstructing Philippine Navy operations within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone. These aggressive actions are rooted in China’s controversial “nine-dash line” claim, which seeks to assert dominance over extensive areas of the South China Sea.
In response to these challenges, the Philippines has been fortifying its alliances with several countries, including the United States, Japan, Australia, France, and India. Joint operations focused on freedom of navigation have become critical components of Manila’s strategy to safeguard its maritime interests.
The Philippine military chief highlighted the successful $375 million BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal signed in 2022, which stands as India’s most significant defense export to date. Deliveries for this missile system have already commenced, with additional shipments scheduled for the coming years.
India has extended offers of technical support for submarine infrastructure development, including naval training, base enhancements, and ship design assistance. This collaboration is expected to be instrumental as the Philippines looks to modernize its aging military assets.
General Brawner listed several Indian defense platforms currently under consideration by the Philippines, showcasing interest in the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, potential procurement of Tejas light combat aircraft, and submarines aimed at boosting the nation’s underwater warfare capabilities.
Additionally, the Philippines is exploring possibilities for joint manufacturing, technology transfers, and local production partnerships with Indian defense companies to strengthen its domestic defense sector.
The expanding defense ties between India and the Philippines underscore a larger strategic alignment in the Indo-Pacific region, where both countries advocate for a free and open maritime order. Notably, joint naval exercises between the Indian Navy and the Philippine Navy were conducted in the South China Sea in 2025, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral defense relations.
As Manila accelerates its military modernization efforts under its Horizon defense program, Indian defense platforms are increasingly perceived as viable and cost-effective options to bolster the Philippines’ security architecture.
