The Philippines’ Department of National Defense has awarded a contract worth approximately $375 million (Rs 2,700 Crores) to India’s BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited for a shore-based anti-ship missile system.
Samir V Kamat, the chief of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), informed the media on January 25, 2024, that the ground systems were scheduled to arrive in the Southeast Asian country within the following 10 days, with the missiles set to be delivered by end of March.
The deal encompasses the acquisition of three missile batteries, each featuring mobile autonomous launchers and tracking systems. These are capable of speeds nearly three times the speed of sound (approximately 3400 km/hr) and can reach up to 290 kilometers. Additionally, the missile is designed to carry warheads weighing between 200 and 300 kilograms.
This warhead is designed to penetrate and damage even the toughest ship hulls. The supersonic cruise missile will provide the Philippines with a deterrent against China’s aggressive maritime actions.
The contract also covers training for operators and comprehensive logistics support. In February 2023, 21 members of the Philippine Navy completed their training on how to operate the missile system.
At the 2023 Philippines Fleet Defense Expo, BrahMos Aerospace showcased that their supersonic missile systems can be equipped on various platforms including boats, submarines, destroyers, and frigates, in addition to land-based and other versions.
On April 18, 2024, India is scheduled to ship BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines, a major step in defense collaboration between the two countries. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, three civilian Freightliners are set to depart for Manila today, accompanied by an Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster. This combination of civilian and military transport highlights the strategic significance and logistical complexity of the delivery.
Today in Nagpur, the presence of the Philippine Ambassador to oversee the dispatch underscores the diplomatic importance of this initiative. The use of various modes of transportation for this delivery reflects the logistical scale of the operation.
At the same time, India is enhancing its missile capabilities with the BrahMos NG project, which includes the development of a ramjet engine in partnership with Russia. This initiative is set to strengthen the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor (UPDIC), boosting India’s local defense capabilities and infrastructure.
The deployment of BrahMos missiles will enhance the Philippines’ maritime defense, particularly in the crucial South China Sea area, and marks a major advancement in India’s defense export strategy.
Views expressed in the article are of author’s own and do not reflect the editorial stance of Business Upturn