Brahmos Deal Could Cost Up to $800 Million, Boost Manila’s Naval Power
Manila, 8 November – The Philippines is close to sealing a sizable upgrade to its missile inventory with India’s Brahmos supersonic cruise missile, a contract that could reach as high as US$800 million. The prospective purchase envisages five additional Brahmos systems – approximately 60 missiles – augmenting the three batteries bought in 2022 for US$375 million.
Defence Minister Gilbert Teodoro revealed the plan at the Third Delhi Defense Dialogue on 4 November, noting that Manila has supplied India with a list of desired customisations. The Philippines wants the missile’s software, launch procedures and storage solutions adapted for its archipelagic environment, which includes varied terrain, tropical weather and a myriad of island bases.
The strategic rationale behind the deal is to reinforce the Philippines’ capacity to deter China’s expansive claims over the South China Sea. By integrating Brahmos into its coastal‑defence matrix, Manila hopes to create a rapid‑response, long‑range strike option that can target enemy ships and installations far beyond the reach of conventional artillery.
Recent joint exercises with United States Marine forces featured live‑fire drills using Brahmos missiles, unmanned aerial drones and land‑based rockets to practice coordinated attacks on moving maritime targets. These drills underscored the missile’s role as a cornerstone of a broader, multi‑domain defence posture.
A purpose‑built facility for the Brahmos is being readied at Naval Station Leon Garcia in Zambales, providing a secure coastal site for maintenance, storage and launch operations.
Technical data sheets describe the Brahmos as a Mach‑3‑plus, precision‑guided cruise missile deployable from land, sea or air platforms. Its liquid‑fuel ram‑jet propulsion delivers high speed and kinetic energy, while a low radar cross‑section makes it difficult for adversary air‑defence systems to detect and intercept.
Former defence chief Delfin Lorenzana has described the system as a “strong deterrent” against any attempts to challenge Philippine sovereignty in the western Philippine Sea. Minister Teodoro has labeled the Brahmos a “game‑changer” for the country’s maritime security, signalling a shift toward a more robust and technologically sophisticated defence architecture.