On Friday, India took a significant step in bolstering its military collaboration with the Philippines by delivering the inaugural batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles on Friday. This highlights underscores the deepening ties between the two nations in response to China's escalating military presence in the South China Sea.
The delivery follows a two-year timeline since India and the Southeast Asian nation inked a USD 375 million agreement for the supply of these advanced weapon systems. A C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF) facilitated the transportation of the missiles and launchers to the Philippines, intended for deployment within the country's marine forces.
As per the terms of the January 2022 deal, India is set to provide three batteries of BrahMos missiles, along with associated launchers and equipment. This transaction marks India's maiden export of the BrahMos missile system, which has attracted interest from other countries like Argentina.
BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between India and Russia, is responsible for the production of these supersonic cruise missiles, renowned for their versatility in deployment from submarines, ships, aircraft, or land-based platforms. With a staggering speed of 2.8 Mach, nearly three times the speed of sound, the BrahMos missile offers unparalleled agility and firepower.
India's strategic alignment with the Philippines reflects shared concerns over China's escalating assertiveness in the South China Sea. Both nations advocate for peaceful conflict resolution and adherence to international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They stand united in urging the implementation of a UN court's arbitral ruling on the South China Sea dispute, despite China's refusal to acknowledge the verdict.
The international community remains vigilant against China's expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea, which encompasses vital hydrocarbon resources. Several regional nations, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Brunei, assert counterclaims in the area.
In line with its commitment to enhancing military cooperation, India has opted to station defense attaches in the Philippines, as well as in Ethiopia, Mozambique, Poland, and Ivory Coast, underscoring its proactive engagement in global security affairs.
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