Abstract:
India's delivery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems to the Philippines signifies a substantial enhancement of the Southeast Asian nation's maritime defense capabilities. This strategic acquisition underscores the Philippines' commitment to addressing regional security challenges in the South China Sea. This policy piece examines the implications of the BrahMos deal, its strategic importance, potential challenges, and the broader geopolitical impact on the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the context of India's interests and efforts to contain China's regional influence.
1. Introduction
India’s recent announcement to dispatch BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems to the Philippines marks a significant milestone in defense collaborations. This $375 million deal is set to bolster the maritime capabilities of the Southeast Asian nation. The delivery, strategically projected for March, is crucial amid escalating tensions between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea 1/2. This acquisition is not just about enhancing the Philippines' defense but also about reinforcing India’s strategic footprint in the Indo-Pacific, a region where China’s aggressive posturing has raised alarms among several nations.
2. Enhancing Naval Capabilities
The BrahMos missile, a product of successful collaboration between India and Russia, is poised to significantly enhance the Philippines Navy's capabilities in safeguarding its sovereign claims amidst contested waters. This deal positions the Philippines among a select group of Southeast Asian nations equipped with supersonic anti-ship cruise missile capabilities, thereby contributing to regional security 3/4. For India, this deal represents a critical export success, enhancing its status as a key defense supplier in the region. By arming the Philippines with advanced missile systems, India strengthens its role in regional security architecture, providing a counterbalance to China’s influence.
3. Multifaceted Strategic Considerations
The acquisition of BrahMos brings forth numerous strategic considerations for the Philippines, including enhanced coastal defense, strengthened cooperation with India and Russia, and diversification of defense capabilities. This aligns with the country's commitment to addressing regional security challenges in the South China Sea5/6. Strategically, for India, the BrahMos deal enhances its geopolitical leverage and supports its "Act East" policy, fostering stronger ties with Southeast Asian nations and countering China's maritime assertiveness.
4. Future Intentions and Proactive Approach
With additional BrahMos acquisitions actively under consideration, the Philippines aims to fortify coastlines in the Indo-Pacific, addressing gaps in coastal defense and complementing earlier orders. The imminent delivery in December signifies a crucial step in strengthening the country's maritime defenses, reflecting a proactive approach to enhance maritime security in the face of potential threats7/8. This proactive stance aligns with India's broader strategy to build a network of capable regional allies, enhancing collective security mechanisms against Chinese maritime activities.
5. India's Defense Diplomacy and Broader Regional Impact
India’s successful defense collaborations, technological advancements, and its growing role in the international defense market are showcased through the BrahMos deal. Beyond bilateral relations, the $375 million deal holds broader regional significance, contributing to India’s defense diplomacy, strengthening strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, and influencing regional dynamics amid China’s assertiveness 9/10. This transaction also serves as a statement of India's defense manufacturing capabilities and its commitment to supporting allies in the region, thereby enhancing India's strategic influence.
6. Shift in Philippines' Defense Priorities
The Philippines' strategic shift from counterinsurgency to territorial defense, as highlighted by Army Chief Romeo Brawner, involves plans to acquire the American HIMARS MLRS and additional BrahMos supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles from India. This signals a robust change in defense priorities, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Army Artillery Regiment in countering modern threats and safeguarding sovereign territory11. This shift complements India's strategic objectives, as it aligns with the broader regional effort to counterbalance China’s expanding military presence.
7. Geopolitical Implications of BrahMos Deal
The BrahMos deal, signed on January 28, 2022, holds significant geopolitical implications for the Indo-Pacific region. Beyond being an arms transaction, it involves India, Russia, and the Philippines, reflecting Manila's strategic acumen in diversifying defense hardware sources. The deal aligns with India’s Act East policy and contributes to the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, addressing China’s pressure in the South China Sea12/13. By extending such strategic partnerships, India reinforces its position as a counterweight to Chinese hegemony in the region.
8. Technological Limitations and Operational Challenges
Despite its strategic significance, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of the Philippines' BrahMos anti-ship missile acquisition as a deterrent against China. Issues include sensor deficiencies, over-the-horizon radar gaps, and challenges in aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance integration14. These challenges necessitate robust support from India in terms of training and technological upgrades to ensure the operational readiness of the missile systems.
9. Historic Leap in Defense Capabilities
The allocation of initial funds for the BrahMos missile system marks a historic leap for the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Described as the most strategic purchase, the missile's supersonic speed and capabilities provide an opportunity for an anti-access/area denial strategy. Despite Missile Technology Control Regime limitations, the importance of integrated systems and political will for effective deterrence is emphasized15/16. This leap is indicative of a broader regional trend where nations are increasingly seeking advanced capabilities to counter China's military advancements.
10. Virtual Agreement and Missile Capabilities
The Philippines' virtual agreement with BrahMos Aerospace signifies a comprehensive deal, covering three batteries with launchers, command-and-control technology, radar, and support vehicles. BrahMos missile capabilities and technical specifications underscore its importance in enhancing maritime defense capabilities. The urgency of the project underscores the government’s commitment to rapid enhancement 17/18. For India, this deal validates its technological prowess and reaffirms its strategic intent to support regional partners.
11. Future Missile Deliveries and Regional Expansion
BrahMos Aerospace CEO Atul D. Rane confirms missile deliveries to the Philippines by the end of 2023, with discussions underway for a potential follow-on order. The article highlights the Philippines' interest in enhancing defense capabilities and BrahMos Aerospace’s potential missile supply deal with Indonesia. Additionally, it notes India’s Defense Acquisition Council’s approval for acquiring extended-range BrahMos missiles, showcasing regional expansion19. These developments signify India's growing influence in the region's defense sector and its commitment to strategic partnerships.
12. Philippines' Military Modernization Plans
The Philippines' strategic pivot from counterinsurgency to territorial defense is highlighted by Army Chief Romeo Brawner. Plans include acquiring the American HIMARS MLRS and additional BrahMos supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles from India. This shift in defense priorities emphasizes the pivotal role of the Army Artillery Regiment in countering modern threats and safeguarding sovereign territory20. This pivot is critical for India’s regional strategy, as it strengthens a key ally’s defense posture against China’s aggressive manoeuvres.
13. Territorial Defense Shift
In response to escalating regional tensions, the Philippines has prioritised a shift towards a territorial defence posture, emphasising the protection of sovereign territory and the countering of modern threats21. This strategic realignment underscores the nation's proactive approach to enhancing national security amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics in the South China Sea region. This shift is pivotal not only for bolstering the Philippines' defence capabilities but also aligns strategically with India's broader geopolitical agenda of containing China's regional influence through strengthened alliances. By supporting this transition, India reinforces regional stability and strengthens collaborative efforts aimed at maintaining a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. This approach underscores India's commitment to its "Act East" policy objectives, facilitating deeper defence cooperation with key partners like the Philippines to mitigate shared security challenges effectively
14. Modernization Plans - Horizon 3
The country is in the final phase of its 15-year-long modernization program (Horizon 3), focusing on acquiring advanced defense systems. Plans include acquiring the American HIMARS and India's BrahMos, signifying a robust transformation of the Philippines' defense strategy22. India’s role in this modernization highlights its strategic commitment to supporting allied nations in enhancing their defense capabilities against common threats.
15. Sensor and Radar Challenges
Despite its potential, the Philippines faces challenges in integrating the BrahMos missile system effectively. Issues such as sensor deficiencies and over-the-horizon radar gaps may impede the system's optimal performance, necessitating comprehensive technological solutions23.India’s support in addressing these technological challenges will be critical for the successful deployment and operation of the missile systems.
16. Comprehensive Defense Strategy
To maximize the BrahMos system's potential, the Philippines must adopt a holistic defense strategy incorporating advanced sensors, surveillance, and integration. Effective implementation requires addressing technological limitations and operational challenges, ensuring the system's efficacy in deterring potential threats24. This holistic approach will not only enhance the Philippines' defense capabilities but also strengthen India's strategic partnerships in the region.
17. Conclusion
In conclusion, the acquisition of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems by the Philippines from India represents a pivotal development in enhancing the country's maritime defense capabilities. This strategic move underscores the Philippines' commitment to addressing regional security challenges, particularly in the contested South China Sea. The deal not only strengthens the Philippines' defense capabilities but also signifies a deepening of defense collaborations between India, Russia, and the Philippines, contributing to regional stability25/26/27. However, effective implementation requires addressing technological limitations and operational challenges to maximize the potential of the BrahMos missile system in deterring potential threats and safeguarding maritime sovereignty. For India, this deal enhances its geopolitical leverage, supports its "Act East" policy, and fosters stronger ties with Southeast Asian nations, providing a counterbalance to China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.
References:
Team Bharatshakti, "BrahMos Missile Systems Headed to Philippines," January 29, 2024, Bharatshakti, https://bharatshakti.in/brahmos-missile-systems-headed-to-philippines/.
Ashish Dangwal, "Russia Missiles for US ‘Treaty Ally’ To Deter China! The Curious Case Of ‘World’s Fastest’ BrahMos Missiles," Eurasian Times, January 29, 2024, https://www.eurasiantimes.com/ncb-edited-russian-origin-missiles-to-empower-us/.
"Maritime interests. First delivery of BrahMos missile to Philippines will happen in December," updated May 11, 2023, The Hindu Business Line, https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/first-delivery-of-brahmos-missile-to-philippines-in-december/article66839606.ece.
Ritu Sharma, "BrahMos: 2024 To See the Philippines Deploying Indian Cruise Missile To Defend Its Long Coastline Against China," Eurasian Times, December 29, 2023, https://www.eurasiantimes.com/philippines-to-deploy-indian-brahmos-cruise-missiles/.
Manjeet Singh Negi, "India to export BrahMos supersonic missile systems to Philippines in next 10 days," India Today, updated January 25, 2024, https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/brahmos-supersonic-missile-systems-to-be-exported-to-philippines-in-next-10-days-drdo-chief-2493544-2024-01-25.
Premesha Saha, "How India’s BrahMos deal is not just about Philippines but gives a stronger message to the region," ORF, originally published February 12, 2022, https://www.orfonline.org/research/how-indias-brahmos-deal-is-not-just-about-philippines.
Aaron-Matthew Lariosa, "Philippines To Acquire HIMARS, More BrahMos Missiles In Coming Years," Naval News, July 1, 2023, https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/07/philippines-to-acquire-himars-more-brahmos-missiles/.
Prabhash K. Dutta, "India-Philippines BrahMos Deal: A Geopolitical Milestone in the Indo-Pacific," Manohar Parrrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, February 23, 2022, https://idsa.in/idsacomments/brahmos-deal-with-philippines-means-for-indo-pacific-ncoak-230222.
Erick Nielson C. Javier, "The BrahMos missile system and the Philippines’ quest for deterrence," ASPI Strategist, February 17, 2022, https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/the-brahmos-missile-system-and-the-philippines-quest-for-deterrence/.
Mike Yeo, "Philippines signs deal for BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missile," Defense News, January 28, 2022, https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2022/01/28/philippines-signs-deal-for-brahmos-supersonic-anti-ship-missile/.
Inder Singh Bisht, "Philippines Considering Additional BrahMos Missile Acquisition," The Defense Post, October 16, 2023, https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/10/16/philippines-brahmos-missile-acquisition/?expand_article=1.
Swarajya Staff, "BrahMos Cruise Missile Delivery To Philippines Set To Start By End Of 2023; Follow-On Order In The Works," Swarajya, March 18, 2023, https://swarajyamag.com/defence/brahmos-cruise-missile-delivery-to-philippines-set-to-start-by-end-of-2023-follow-on-order-in-the-works.
Ben Ho, "Can the Philippines’ BrahMos Missiles Really Deter China? Technological limitations on Manila’s end will limit the missile’s range – and its deterrent factor," The Diplomat, January 27, 2022, https://thediplomat.com/2022/01/can-the-philippines-brahmos-missiles-really-deter-china/.
End Notes:
1. “Team Bharatshakti, BrahMos Missile Systems Headed to Philippines".
2. “Ashish Dangwal, Russia Missiles for US ‘Treaty Ally’ To Deter China! The Curious Case Of ‘World’s Fastest’ BrahMos Missiles".
3. “Team Bharatshakti, BrahMos Missile Systems Headed to Philippines".
4. "Maritime interests. First delivery of BrahMos missile to Philippines will happen in December".
5. “Ashish Dangwal, Russia Missiles for US ‘Treaty Ally’ To Deter China! The Curious Case Of ‘World’s Fastest’ BrahMos Missiles".
6. "Maritime interests. First delivery of BrahMos…..”
8. “Ritu Sharma, BrahMos: 2024 To See the Philippines Deploying Indian Cruise Missile to Defend Its Long Coastline Against China".
9. “Manjeet Singh Negi, India to export BrahMos supersonic missile systems to Philippines in next 10 days".
10. “Premesha Saha, "How India’s BrahMos deal is not just about Philippines but gives a stronger message to the region".
11. “Aaron-Matthew Lariosa, Philippines to Acquire HIMARS, More BrahMos Missiles in Coming Years".
12. “Prabhash K. Dutta, India-Philippines BrahMos Deal: A Geopolitical Milestone in the Indo-Pacific".
13. “Erick Nielson C. Javier, The BrahMos missile system and the Philippines’ quest for deterrence".
14. “Ben Ho, Can the Philippines’ BrahMos Missiles Really Deter China? Technological limitations on Manila’s end will limit the missile’s range – and its deterrent factor".
15. “Erick Nielson C. Javier, The BrahMos missile system and the Philippines’ quest for deterrence"
16. Mike Yeo, "Philippines signs deal for BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missile,"
17. ibid.
18. “Inder Singh Bisht, "Philippines Considering Additional BrahMos Missile Acquisition"
19. “Swarajya Staff, BrahMos Cruise Missile Delivery to Philippines Set To Start By End Of 2023; Follow-On Order In The Works".
20. “Aaron-Matthew Lariosa, Philippines to Acquire HIMARS…., ".
21. Idid.
22. Idid.
23. “Ben Ho, Can the Philippines’ BrahMos Missiles Really Deter ….,".
24. Idid.
25. “Team Bharatshakti, "BrahMos Missile Systems ….,” AshishDangwal, 2024; Ho, 2022)
26. “Ashish Dangwal, Russia Missiles for US ‘Treaty….,”
27. “Ben Ho, Can the Philippines’ BrahMos Missiles….,”
