New Delhi: The Philippines is “very, very happy” with its acquisition of India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio said on November 3, describing the technology as an unmatched deterrent capability. In an interview with ANI on the sidelines of the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi, Ignacio said that Manila is proud to be the first export customer for the missile system.
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Ignacio said that the acquisition strengthened the Philippines’ deterrence capabilities, particularly as the country sought to protect its maritime interests. He stressed that the system is intended to deter potential threats rather than be used in conflict, describing the Philippines as a peace-loving country that requires credible defence capabilities.
The Philippines signed a $375 million deal in 2022 to acquire the BrahMos coastal defence missile system from India. The agreement marked a major milestone in India’s defence exports and establishes the Philippines as the first international customer for the India-Russia joint venture’s missile system.
The ambassador also signaled scope for further defence procurement from India, saying the BrahMos deal has established New Delhi as a credible source of advanced military technology for Manila. He noted that the Philippines has already procured smaller defence items from India, including helmets, protective vests and military trucks, and said that future purchases will depend on the country’s defence ministry and armed forces.
The remarks came amid expanding India-Philippines strategic and defence cooperation, including military training, maritime security and defence-industry engagement. While Ignacio leaves open the possibility of additional BrahMos purchases, he does not confirmed a new order. The comments nevertheless highlighted the potential for India to expand its position in the Philippines’ future high-technology defence procurement.
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