India emerges as a major arms exporter, boosting Philippines’ defence capabilities

India showcases its defence capabilities during a seminar, boosting military ties with the Philippines. Negotiations over a $100 million credit line are stalled despite an agreement for BrahMos missiles, underscoring India’s resolve to be independent.

India, seeking to strengthen its military capabilities through the Philippines, has established itself as a major arms exporter in the area. The first-ever India-Philippines defence industry seminar was recently held by the Indian Embassy in the Philippines, where a business delegation presented a range of defence platforms made in the country.

Participating were representatives from more than twenty Indian defence businesses, such as Mahindra Emirates Vehicle Armouring, Bharat Dynamics Ltd., DCM Shriram Industries Ltd., and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. This action is in line with India’s goal of being a key player in the upgrading of the Philippine defence industry.

Advertisement

President Marcos’ updated military modernization plan, known as Re-Horizon 3, has been authorised by the Philippines and will cost P2 trillion over the following ten years. India’s varied capabilities in in-ground systems, artillery systems, fighter aircraft, attack helicopters, and naval systems, as highlighted by Indian Ambassador Shambhu Kumaran, could meet the needs mentioned in the Horizon 3 plan.

As the first foreign buyer for the P18.9 billion BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, India has already inked a deal with the Philippines for 2022. It is anticipated that the first shipment of missiles will arrive shortly, however, no precise delivery date was given.

Talks have stalled despite India’s previous offer of a $100 million credit line to help the Philippines with its defence requirements. According to Ambassador Kumaran, India’s offer is still open, and it includes a soft loan for prospective cooperative industrial projects as well as defence acquisitions. The Philippines is developing a framework to create a programme for self-defence posture, which is the reason for the delay.

Kumaran emphasised that India is prepared to share its experience and collaborate with local organisations in order to promote self-reliance for the defence of the Philippines. To reduce reliance on outside assistance, the Philippine Department of National Defence has been promoting a defence strategy that favours domestic vendors.

Kumaran highlighted one of India’s main advantages as being its affordability, claiming that the country can provide the latest innovations at reasonable costs. He cited India’s history of fostering the growth of its own technologies, capabilities, and extensive industrial facilities.

As he wrapped up, Kumaran emphasised that both India and the Philippines are peaceful countries that share a dedication to maintaining their territorial integrity. He emphasised that in order to improve defence relations between the two countries, action must be taken in addition to talks.