Rajnath-Hegseth Talks: India-US Defence Ties Take Centre Stage On The Sidelines of ASEAN Summit In Philippines

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held talks with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, as India and the United States reviewed progress under their growing strategic defence partnership.

The meeting marked one year since the signing of the Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership, a ten-year roadmap designed to deepen military cooperation, strengthen interoperability and expand collaboration across a range of defence sectors.

Following the discussions, Hegseth described it as a productive engagement, stating, “Great meeting with Indian Minister of Defence Singh. We celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Framework for our Major Defence Partnership and explored ways to strengthen cooperation.”

Singh also characterised the talks as constructive, noting that both sides assessed progress under the 10-year India-US Defence Framework. He said the partnership is driving strategic convergence in military technology, information sharing and co-production, adding that it remains “a cornerstone for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.”

The framework, signed by the two leaders in 2025, is intended to provide long-term policy direction for defence ties between the two countries. It builds upon earlier defence cooperation agreements and is aimed at expanding collaboration across land, maritime, air, space and cyber domains while encouraging closer industrial cooperation and joint initiatives.

Alongside his meeting with Singh, Hegseth also held discussions with senior defence representatives from South Korea, Australia and Japan. Reflecting on his meeting with South Korean Defence Minister Kang, he said the US-ROK alliance is founded on “peace through strength-ready forces, decisive capability, and combined lethality that deters aggression,” adding that America stands with allies committed to strengthening their own defence capabilities.

After meeting Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, Hegseth said the two countries were working together to optimise their alliance, strengthen deterrence and deliver tangible outcomes.

He also met Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, describing the engagement as an effort to advance a shared vision of “peace through strength”. Hegseth emphasised the importance of deeper strategic alignment through increased investment, improved access, more realistic training and stronger munitions production.

Singh arrived in Cebu on Tuesday evening to participate in the ADMM-Plus gathering, where regional leaders are discussing a range of common security and strategic challenges facing the Indo-Pacific.

On arrival, he received a ceremonial welcome from Major General Fabian M. Pedregosa PAF (Retd), Undersecretary of the Philippine Department of National Defence. Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Harsh Kumar Jain and Defence Attaché Captain ChandraKant Kothari were also present.

The Defence Minister later interacted with members of the Indian community and Filipino nationals at his hotel.

During his visit, Singh is scheduled to hold a series of bilateral meetings with counterparts from the United States, Japan, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea and the host nation, the Philippines, with a focus on strengthening defence ties and expanding strategic cooperation.

On Thursday, he will represent India at the ADMM-Plus forum and address participating nations on regional and international security issues.

Before departing for the Philippines, Singh reiterated India's commitment to ASEAN centrality and regional stability, stating, “India is firmly committed to ASEAN centrality and the peace, stability, and collective growth of the Indo-Pacific region under our Act East Policy.”

The ADMM-Plus remains one of the Indo-Pacific’s most important security platforms, bringing together ASEAN members and key dialogue partners to advance defence cooperation, address shared challenges and promote regional stability.

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Akash Missile Exports Could Propel India's Defence Ambitions, But Financing Remains The Missing Link

India's reported export of the indigenous Akash surface-to-air missile system to Tajikistan and Turkmenistan could mark another important step in the country's ambition to become a major global defence exporter, NDTV reported.

The potential deals would also give Indian defence manufacturers a stronger presence in Central Asia, where countries are increasingly seeking alternatives to Russian and Chinese military equipment.

The development follows earlier export successes with Armenia and the Philippines, both of which have procured Indian missiles and munitions, highlighting the growing international acceptance of Indian defence products.

More broadly, the Akash missile system symbolises India's transformation from one of the world's largest arms importers into a country seeking to export sophisticated indigenous military technology. For decades, excessive controls and limited export incentives constrained the defence manufacturing sector, creating a contradiction between India's large defence imports and its industrial potential.

That picture is changing rapidly. Defence production rose from ₹46,429 crore in 2014-15 to about ₹1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26, while defence exports surged from ₹686 crore in 2013-14 to a record ₹38,424 crore in 2025-26, reaching more than 80 countries.

The government has set targets of ₹3 lakh crore in annual defence production and ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029. Achieving these goals will require higher manufacturing output and a sustained international presence.

India is also moving beyond exporting components and spare parts towards complete weapon systems. Missiles, radars, electronic warfare systems, counter-drone technologies, artillery platforms and naval equipment are increasingly part of the country's export portfolio.

The BrahMos cruise missile and Akash air-defence system demonstrate this evolution, while platforms such as the Astra air-to-air missile, TEJAS light combat aircraft and indigenous naval vessels offer future opportunities. India's proven capability in building corvettes, frigates and destroyers also raises questions about why these warships have yet to secure a larger share of global defence markets.

The Akash project and its advanced variants, including Akash Prime and Akash-NG, underline the importance of sustained research, regular upgrades and reliable production capacity in supporting long-term export growth.

Defence manufacturing is not only a national security priority but also a major economic opportunity. The sector drives investment, skilled employment, technological innovation and industrial development. It also fosters advances in areas such as electronics, advanced materials, sensors, communications, propulsion and precision manufacturing.

However, defence production requires substantial upfront investment, rigorous testing, extensive validation and long-term delivery commitments. Export orders help companies spread development costs, increase production volumes and reduce reliance on domestic orders. This is particularly important for private-sector firms and MSMEs supplying components and specialised services.

One of the industry's biggest concerns remains export financing, particularly through Lines of Credit supported by the Export-Import Bank of India. Manufacturers argue that obtaining financing can be difficult even after securing overseas contracts, with cumbersome procedures often delaying execution.

While government-to-government deals generally face fewer challenges, industry believes this approach alone cannot support India's wider export ambitions, especially as private-sector participation is actively encouraged.

The issue is particularly acute for MSMEs, which must navigate defence-specific requirements such as trials, post-trial validation and acceptance procedures. Industry representatives argue that despite substantial credit facilities available through Exim Bank, defence exports account for only a small share, strengthening calls for special treatment similar to a priority sector.

Manufacturers are urging policymakers to design financing mechanisms better suited to the realities of defence exports, where contracts often involve customisation, technical evaluations, security clearances and lengthy delivery schedules. Significant expenditure may be required long before payments are received.

To address these challenges, industry has called for a dedicated defence-export financing framework offering working capital, contract-linked credit and appropriate guarantees. There is also support for a single-window mechanism to coordinate export clearances, financing, insurance and other approvals.

Advocates believe the government should examine whether defence manufacturing and exports warrant priority-sector-like treatment in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, the Ministry of Finance and Exim Bank. The aim would be to recognise the sector's unique risks, capital requirements and long development cycles without weakening financial discipline.

A more coordinated approach is also needed across government agencies. While the Ministry of Defence promotes exports and private investment, financing institutions often operate under separate procedures, leaving exporters to bridge the gap between policy objectives and practical implementation.

The opportunity remains substantial. As countries seek to diversify military procurement amid growing geopolitical uncertainty, India is increasingly positioned as an alternative supplier. Its expanding industrial base, improving technological capabilities and strengthening diplomatic ties provide access to potential markets across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and beyond.

The Akash missile system demonstrates what India can achieve when indigenous technological capability is matched by export ambition. The next challenge is creating a policy and financing ecosystem that enables many more Indian defence platforms to follow the same path.

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BrahMos Emerges As Key Threat To Chinese Warships In Philippine Marine Corps War Games

According to Philippine media reports, internal war games conducted by the Philippine Marine Corps have indicated that the Indian-made BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missile possesses the ability to penetrate the air-defence systems of Chinese guided-missile destroyers, including some of the People's Liberation Army Navy's most capable surface combatants.

The simulations were carried out as part of the Philippine military's efforts to improve operational proficiency with its newly acquired BrahMos missile batteries, which were purchased from India under a $375 million defence agreement signed in 2022.

Reports emerging from the exercises suggest that, in several simulated engagements, the BrahMos missile was assessed as the only available weapon capable of successfully reaching its target after facing layered air-defence systems deployed aboard Chinese warships.

While specific details of the internal simulation scenarios have not been publicly disclosed, the findings have attracted attention because of the growing strategic competition between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea.

The exercises form part of a broader effort by the Philippines to strengthen its coastal strike capabilities and establish a credible maritime deterrent against increasingly sophisticated naval threats operating in disputed waters.

The BrahMos missile, jointly developed by India and Russia, is widely regarded as one of the fastest operational anti-ship cruise missiles in service. Its combination of supersonic speed, low-altitude flight profile and manoeuvrability during the terminal phase makes interception significantly more challenging than slower subsonic missile systems.

Philippine military planners have increasingly been focused on integrating the missile into a wider network of surveillance and targeting assets. This approach is intended to ensure that coastal missile batteries can engage hostile naval forces at extended ranges while remaining dispersed and difficult to locate.

Recent Philippine and United States training activities have provided additional insight into how Manila intends to employ the BrahMos operationally.

During bilateral exercises conducted in Northern Luzon, Philippine and American forces rehearsed the creation of a maritime strike kill chain using unmanned aerial systems and intelligence assets to locate, identify and track simulated hostile naval formations.

The activity involved generating targeting information for ground-launched BrahMos missiles through drone surveillance, demonstrating how a networked sensor-to-shooter architecture could be employed during a future maritime contingency.

The simulated Chinese naval task group used during separate training activities reportedly included Type-052D guided-missile destroyers, a Type-054A frigate and a Type-901 fast combat support ship. These vessels represent some of the principal surface combatant classes deployed by the People's Liberation Army Navy.

Although public reporting has not confirmed that Type-055 destroyers were specifically included in every exercise scenario, the discussion surrounding the war games has centred on the missile's ability to challenge even the most advanced Chinese naval air-defence systems.

The Type-055 is widely considered China's premier large surface combatant. Equipped with a powerful radar suite, extensive vertical launch capacity and advanced air-defence missiles, the vessel is designed to provide area air-defence protection for carrier strike groups and major naval formations.

The Philippine Marine Corps' assessment is therefore significant because it suggests that supersonic anti-ship missiles such as BrahMos could complicate the defensive calculations of even heavily protected surface action groups.

Military analysts have long argued that speed remains one of BrahMos's greatest advantages. Travelling at roughly three times the speed of sound, the missile compresses the reaction time available to defending warships, reducing the window for detection, tracking and engagement.

The Philippines has already received and operationalised its first BrahMos battery, while infrastructure development and deployment planning continue at additional locations across the archipelago.

Strategically positioned coastal missile units could allow Manila to monitor and, if necessary, threaten hostile naval vessels operating near critical maritime approaches, including areas facing the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait.

The growing emphasis on integrating drones, surveillance platforms and long-range precision strike systems reflects a broader shift in Philippine defence planning towards an archipelagic defence strategy focused on sea denial rather than direct naval confrontation.

As tensions with China continue over disputed maritime territories, the BrahMos missile is increasingly being viewed by Philippine defence planners as a central component of the country's maritime deterrence posture.

The war game results, if reflective of real-world performance, underscore why the BrahMos has gained a reputation as one of the most formidable coastal-defence missile systems currently available and why its deployment is closely watched across the Indo-Pacific region.

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Missiles, Leverage, Influence: India’s Arms Export Foreign Policy Play

India’s expanding defence exports are becoming a tool of statecraft rather than merely a source of revenue.

Recent BrahMos missile agreements highlight how New Delhi is using military exports to strengthen long-term strategic relationships and extend its influence across key regions.

The BrahMos Aerospace agreement signed with Indonesia during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s July 2026 visit marked the third export success for the supersonic cruise missile after earlier sales to the Philippines and Vietnam. All three nations border or operate in the wider South China Sea region and face maritime disputes with China.

A BrahMos deployment in the Philippines, Vietnam or Indonesia gives these countries a credible deterrent capability while creating enduring links with India through training, maintenance, logistics and operational planning. The missile’s combat use during the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025 has further enhanced its attractiveness in international markets.

The significance of these deals extends beyond a single weapons platform. India is steadily building a broader portfolio of defence exports that reflects a wider strategic vision and growing geopolitical ambition.

India’s defence exports reached ₹38,424 crore in 2025-26, representing growth of nearly 63 per cent in a single year. The figure stood below ₹700 crore in 2013-14. Indian defence equipment is now supplied to more than 80 countries, while the government has set a target of ₹50,000 crore in annual exports by 2028-29.

The nature of exports is also changing. Armenia has emerged as a major customer, acquiring Akash surface-to-air missile systems, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, Swathi weapon-locating radars and ATAGS artillery guns. Media estimates place these purchases at nearly ₹16,600 crore, although no official figure has been confirmed.

India is also preparing to export the Astra air-to-air missile, potentially marking the first overseas sale of that system. Alongside this, Dornier aircraft, patrol vessels and Advanced Light Helicopters have been supplied to several Indian Ocean nations.

These exports indicate a transition from selling individual items and spare parts to exporting integrated military systems. Such systems create long-term dependence through maintenance requirements, upgrades, training and operational integration.

In Southeast Asia, BrahMos exports represent India’s response to China’s expanding regional presence. Rather than establishing military bases, India is helping regional states strengthen their own deterrence capabilities, placing Indian-origin military capacity along China’s maritime periphery.

In the Caucasus, defence sales to Armenia provide India with strategic influence in a region where Turkey and Pakistan support Azerbaijan. These agreements also strengthen India’s position along routes linked to Iran and the International North-South Transport Corridor.

Across the Indian Ocean, defence cooperation with countries including Mauritius, Seychelles and the Maldives reinforces India’s role as the principal security partner for many smaller regional states, consistent with the SAGAR vision announced in 2015.

Exports also strengthen India’s domestic defence industry. Larger production runs reduce costs for India’s armed forces, support indigenous manufacturing and lessen vulnerability to external pressure from foreign suppliers.

Challenges remain. BrahMos is a joint India-Russia venture, requiring Russian approval for exports, which can affect delivery timelines and strategic flexibility. The Indonesian agreement itself required Russian clearance before proceeding.

Many customers are small or middle-income nations that often require favourable financing arrangements, phased payments or technology-transfer provisions. At the same time, Indian manufacturers face growing competition from suppliers in South Korea, Turkey and Europe, while maintaining delivery schedules and reliability will be critical.

Although India’s annual defence exports remain modest compared with those of the United States, Russia, France and China, the broader trajectory is clear.

The selection of customers reflects New Delhi’s strategic priorities: strengthening the capabilities of China’s neighbours, countering rival partnerships involving Turkey and Pakistan, and consolidating influence across the Indian Ocean.

Rather than relying on formal alliances or overseas military bases, India is increasingly using defence exports to build durable partnerships, enhance interoperability and deepen regional influence.

In this model, strategic autonomy is expressed not only through diplomacy but through supply chains, industrial capacity and long-term security relationships.

A rising power signals its arrival not merely through what it acquires, but through the partners it chooses to equip, and India is increasingly making those choices with clear strategic intent.

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BrahMos Emerges As Flagship of India’s Growing Defence Export Push Across South-East Asia

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has described the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile as a benchmark for India’s emerging defence export success, highlighting its role as one of the country’s most advanced strategic systems to secure overseas orders.

India has secured contracts or agreements for BrahMos with three South-East Asian nations: the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam. The Philippines was the first export customer, with deliveries already underway, while agreements with Indonesia and Vietnam have expanded the missile’s regional footprint.

According to Singh, the BrahMos system has demonstrated its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor and has further strengthened its reputation through an air-launched variant operated successfully by Sukhoi fighter aircraft. He said the missile possesses significant export potential and is expected to remain a major driver of India’s defence export growth.

The Philippines has already received BrahMos systems worth around ₹2,800 crore. Initial exports to Vietnam are expected to be worth about ₹850 crore, while the Indonesian deal is estimated at roughly ₹1,700 crore. Together, these agreements are expected to push BrahMos exports beyond ₹5,100 crore.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh also stated that BrahMos has an air-launched variant (BrahMos-A) that has been a success on Sukhoi aircraft. This is consistent with the known existence of the BrahMos-A carried by the Indian Air Force's Su-30MKI fleet.

The missile has become a prominent symbol of India’s indigenous defence capabilities. Its combination of supersonic speed, precision strike capability and long-range performance has attracted interest from multiple countries seeking advanced missile systems.

The expanding BrahMos order book also reflects the broader rise of India’s defence exports, which have reached record levels and now serve more than 80 countries worldwide.

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Second Edition of ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise Commences In The Philippines

Strengthening strategic defence ties in the Indo-Pacific, the Indian Navy and Southeast Asian maritime forces have launched the second iteration of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) at Subic Bay in the Philippines, announced PIB.

Operating under the motto "Anchored in Trust, United at Sea", the joint drills aim to foster seamless interoperability and shared maritime domain awareness among participating navies. India's naval presence is anchored by the multi-role stealth frigate INS Sahyadri and the indigenous missile corvette INS Kulish.

Inaugurating the exercise, India’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Harsh Kumar Jain, addressed the international contingents as the Guest of Honour, reiterating that rules-based maritime security and collaborative naval diplomacy are vital for regional stability.

The multilateral exercise is structured into a harbour phase and a sea phase. During the harbour segment, naval personnel are participating in professional subject-matter exchanges, tactical planning sessions, operational synchronisation, and various community and cultural interactions designed to foster camaraderie ahead of the pre-sail brief. Transitioning to the sea phase, ships will carry out joint tactical manoeuvres, communication drills, and operational serials designed to validate common maritime tactics and raise operational preparedness.

This deployed presence of Indian warships reinforces India's broader diplomatic goals. The exercise directly advances New Delhi's Act East Policy while furthering the strategic mandate of MAHASAGAR—an acronym standing for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions—which frames India's vision for collective security and sustainable growth across regional waters.

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Indian Naval Ships INS Sahyadri And INS Kulish Dock In Philippines For ASEAN Maritime Cooperation

Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish arrived at Subic Bay in the Philippines on Sunday to take part in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity.

This deployment forms part of the Indian Navy’s operational outreach and reflects India’s growing maritime engagement in the region.

The ADMM-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity brings together maritime forces from ASEAN member states and eight Plus countries. Its purpose is to foster professional and operational engagements that enhance interoperability, build mutual understanding, and strengthen cooperation in the maritime domain.

India’s participation in this activity is aligned with the Government’s Act East Policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR. It underscores New Delhi’s commitment to multilateral maritime cooperation and constructive engagement with regional partners.

The deployment is designed to provide opportunities for the Indian Navy to interact with other maritime forces, contributing to a deeper understanding of shared maritime challenges.

The port call at Subic Bay also highlights the strengthening maritime relationship between India and the Philippines. This builds upon recent bilateral engagements and the establishment of the India-Philippines Strategic Partnership in August 2025. The deployment offers a platform to further consolidate professional linkages and maritime cooperation between the two nations.

Earlier, on September 15, Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F Ignacio spoke at the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Indian Council of World Affairs. He noted that India and the Philippines have witnessed a significant intensification of ties over the past decade, culminating in the elevation of the relationship to a strategic partnership last year. He emphasised that the relationship, formally 77 years old, has gained visible momentum in the past decade.

Ambassador Ignacio described India as a partner of great mutual and strategic trust, particularly in the maritime space.

He pointed out that the Philippines sees India as a responsible player, a preferred security partner, and a first responder in times of crisis. He recalled India’s assistance to Filipino seafarers in the Indian Ocean during recent uncertainties, which reinforced this trust.

He also highlighted India’s role as a source of knowledge and a model for ASEAN countries. For the Philippines, India is seen as a valued partner whose experience and responsible conduct in the maritime domain provide lessons for the wider region.

The arrival of Sahyadri and Kulish at Subic Bay thus represents more than a routine naval deployment. It is a visible demonstration of India’s strategic commitment to ASEAN-led frameworks, its deepening partnership with the Philippines, and its broader role as a stabilising maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.

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Philippine Foreign Secretary Calls BrahMos Cornerstone of India-Philippines Defence Partnership

The BrahMos missile system has been described by Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma Theresa P Lazaro as a key pillar of India-Philippines defence ties.

She emphasised that the missile system represents an important element of the bilateral defence relationship, though she refrained from commenting on potential additional acquisitions or cooperation, noting that such matters fall under the Philippines’ Department of National Defence.

In her remarks, Lazaro stated that BrahMos is indeed an important aspect of India’s defence relations with the Philippines. When asked about possible future acquisitions, joint exercises, logistics cooperation, or defence industrial collaboration, she clarified that these questions should be directed to the Department of National Defense, underscoring the division of responsibilities within the Philippine government.

The Philippines has emerged as a significant defence partner for India in the Indo-Pacific region. The BrahMos missile deal has become a landmark element of the two countries’ expanding strategic and defence engagement. Defence cooperation is now considered one of the strongest pillars of bilateral relations.

A major milestone was reached on 19 April 2024 when India delivered the first batch of the BrahMos missile system to the Philippines, making it the first foreign nation to acquire this advanced weapon system.

Her comments came against the backdrop of growing India-Philippines cooperation in defence and maritime security, particularly in response to evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

The deployment of BrahMos has been seen as enhancing Manila’s deterrence posture, while also strengthening India’s role as a reliable defence partner in Southeast Asia.

The Foreign Secretary also commended India for organising a “very successful” BRICS Summit. She highlighted South-South cooperation as a key aspect of the grouping, praising the diversity of BRICS membership and India’s efforts in steering the organisation amid differing geopolitical perspectives. 

Lazaro described South-South cooperation as a very important element of the summit and noted that the expanded BRICS grouping was laudably seeking to address a wide range of geopolitical issues.

She further commended India for initiating and successfully organising the summit, which was hosted in New Delhi last weekend.

The 18th BRICS Summit brought together leaders and representatives of the expanded grouping to discuss issues of global governance, economic cooperation, development, and priorities of the Global South. India’s leadership in hosting the summit was acknowledged as a constructive step in strengthening multilateral cooperation.

The Philippines’ recognition of BrahMos as a cornerstone of its defence ties with India reflects the broader trajectory of Indo-Philippine relations, where defence and strategic cooperation are increasingly intertwined with wider regional and global engagements.

The remarks also underline the Philippines’ appreciation of India’s role in both bilateral defence cooperation and multilateral platforms such as BRICS.

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US Marines Help Philippines Develop BrahMos Strike Plans Against Chinese Warships

The United States Marine Corps has been actively helping the Philippine Armed Forces develop strike plans for BrahMos missile operations against Chinese warships through joint exercises and simulated targeting drills.

These rehearsals are part of a broader US-Philippines defence cooperation program aimed at strengthening Manila’s coastal defence and deterrence posture in the South China Sea.

The United States and the Philippines have recently conducted joint maritime strike rehearsals under the Archipelagic Coastal Defence Continuum 26.4 exercise.

These drills took place at Camp Bojeador in Luzon in late August 2026. American and Filipino planners worked together to simulate the use of BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles against Chinese naval vessels.

The simulated targets included two Type-052D-class guided-missile destroyers, a Type-054A-class frigate, and a Type-901 fast combat support ship, all of which are currently in service with China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy.

The exercises involved plotting Hermes drones of the Philippine Air Force to track a surface action group, thereby forming a kill chain that would enable BrahMos missile strikes. This integration of drones and coastal missile batteries was designed to replicate real-world targeting and fire planning against adversary warships.

The US Marine Corps emphasised that training alongside the Philippine Marine Corps’ Coastal Defence Regiment provided valuable insights into how Manila approaches maritime defence within its unique geography and operating environment.

The bilateral drills are part of Washington’s broader effort to enhance the Philippines’ long-range strike capabilities. In recent years, US-Philippines military exercises have increasingly focused on coastal defence and deterrence against Chinese naval expansion.

Earlier in 2026, the BrahMos system also featured in Exercise Balikatan, where simulated firings were conducted to test interoperability and joint targeting procedures with US and allied forces.

These exercises highlight the growing role of BrahMos as Manila’s most potent weapon system, acquired from India in a landmark $375 million deal in 2022, equivalent to approximately ₹3,125 crores.

The BrahMos is renowned for its supersonic speed of Mach 2.8–3.0, sea-skimming flight profile, and devastating kinetic impact. Its inclusion in Philippine coastal defence architecture directly addresses vulnerabilities in sea control and anti-access/area-denial strategies.

The Coastal Defence Regiment has already deployed BrahMos units in Northern Luzon, extending coverage along strategically important coastlines facing the South China Sea.

Reports from Navbharat Times and USNI News confirm that the US Marines have prepared strike plans specifically tailored for BrahMos operations against Chinese aggression. These plans are intended to be used by the Philippine Navy and Marine Corps in the event of conflict with China.

The exercises underscore the seriousness of the alliance’s preparations, as they simulate attacks on Chinese warships that could be deployed in contested waters. Analysts note that the BrahMos missile’s speed and precision make it extremely difficult for enemy defences to intercept, thereby raising the costs of Chinese aggression in the region.

The collaboration also reflects India’s growing credibility as a defence exporter. The Philippines was the first foreign customer of BrahMos, and its deployment has already influenced other ASEAN nations such as Vietnam and Indonesia to consider similar acquisitions.

Thailand is also reportedly evaluating the missile system. This expanding “BrahMos Belt” across Southeast Asia complicates Beijing’s maritime calculus and strengthens regional deterrence.

The US-Philippines strike planning with BrahMos represents a significant step in operational readiness. While no live missiles were fired during the drills, the constructive environment allowed full activation of sensors, radars, and command networks, simulating real combat conditions.

This ensures that the Philippines can seamlessly integrate BrahMos into joint operations with US forces, enhancing its deterrence posture against Chinese naval threats.

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BrahMos Belt Strategy Encircles South China Sea With Expanded Footprint To Challenge China

India is steadily expanding the footprint of its BrahMos supersonic cruise missile across the South China Sea, a development experts have termed the BrahMos belt strategy, India Today reported.

This approach is seen as a way to strengthen regional deterrence against aggressive Chinese maritime moves without India directly deploying forces in contested waters.

The BrahMos missile, with a flight range of up to 290 km, was the star of India’s Operation Sindoor last year.

During hostilities with Pakistan, BrahMos strikes on air bases such as Nur Khan and Sargodha forced Islamabad to seek a ceasefire. Its precision and speed demonstrated its effectiveness, making it a game changer in regional military balance.

Three ASEAN nations have already signed deals for the BrahMos, while Thailand is evaluating the missile. The Philippines was the first to acquire it in 2022 for coastal defence in a deal worth ₹3,125 crore.

Vietnam followed with a contract valued at ₹5,900 crore, and Indonesia has agreed to purchase two BrahMos batteries worth ₹1,900 crore.

Malaysia is also showing interest. Together, these acquisitions form a chain of BrahMos batteries encircling the South China Sea.

Lieutenant General PR Shankar (Retd), who was closely involved in the missile’s induction, explained that the BrahMos belt strategy is not aimed at targeting China alone but at strengthening regional deterrence.

He emphasised that the strategy would not impact India-China ties directly but would signal to Beijing that it is dealing with a stronger India. He noted that China, operating at maximum extended range in the South China Sea, becomes vulnerable as its naval platforms fall within the arc of the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

Tristan Tang, co-founder of the Taiwan Defence Studies Initiative, highlighted that while ASEAN is not an Asian NATO, exports from India and better coordination could create a BrahMos belt. This informal network of missile operators would act as a deterrent to possible Chinese amphibious operations.

The South China Sea is a vital shipping route, accounting for 21% of global trade. China claims about 90% of it through its “nine-dash line”, leading to overlapping disputes with Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.

Beijing has built artificial islands and conducted naval patrols, resulting in standoffs with the Philippines in 2012 and Vietnam in 1974 and 1988. Smaller Southeast Asian nations have long struggled to impose costs on Chinese operations, but the acquisition of BrahMos missiles changes this equation.

The BrahMos is particularly suited for coastal defence. It is a ‘fire-and-forget’ missile that can be launched from land, ships, or fighter aircraft. Its speed and accuracy make it virtually impossible to intercept. Defence experts argue that no air defence system in China can counter the BrahMos effectively. This forces China to reconsider its maritime strategy, which relies heavily on deploying large naval platforms across disputed waters.

China’s concerns are evident. The Global Times, a state-run outlet, acknowledged in 2024 that the Philippines’ acquisition of BrahMos could give it striking capability towards reefs and regions in the Spratly Islands. Beijing is particularly sensitive about two waterways: the Strait of Malacca and the Luzon Strait.

The Malacca Strait is critical for China, with 80% of its oil imports and a significant share of trade passing through it. India’s recent deal with Indonesia to jointly develop the Sabang Port, overlooking the strait and located near India’s Great Nicobar transhipment hub, adds to China’s worries. The Luzon Strait, connecting the South China Sea with the Pacific Ocean, is equally vital for Chinese trade and energy security.

By equipping countries along China’s maritime periphery with BrahMos missiles, India is enabling them to bolster their military capabilities and strengthen deterrence.

This strategy allows India to raise China’s hackles without sending soldiers or ships into the South China Sea. It is a shrewd move that enhances India’s strategic presence in China’s backyard while reinforcing regional security.

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Final BrahMos Batch For Philippines Spotted In India With Marine Corps Camouflage

The final batch of BrahMos shore-based anti-ship missile systems for the Philippines has been spotted in India, carrying the distinctive Philippine Marine Corps digital camouflage.

This marks the completion of the landmark $375 million contract signed in 2022, with the systems set to be operated by the Coastal Defence Regiment.

The latest imagery and reports confirm that India is preparing the final consignment of BrahMos systems for transfer to Manila. Vehicles and support equipment configured with Philippine Marine Corps camouflage have been seen in Indian facilities, strongly indicating that the systems are intended for Philippine service.

The camouflage pattern is significant as it demonstrates that the equipment has been customised for the Philippines rather than being transferred in Indian-standard configurations.

The deal was signed on 28 January 2022 between BrahMos Aerospace and the Philippines, valued at approximately PHP18.9 billion or $375 million. It covered three batteries of the shore-based anti-ship missile system, along with associated equipment, training, and logistical support.

This made the Philippines the first international customer of the Indo-Russian BrahMos missile program. The first battery was delivered in April 2024, transported by Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster-III aircraft. The second batch followed in 2025, with Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. confirming its arrival and integration.

The final batch now spotted in India represents the third and last battery under the contract. Defence observers note that the equipment includes mobile launchers, command-and-control systems, radar, and replenishment vehicles, all tailored to Philippine operational requirements.

The Coastal Defence Regiment of the Philippine Marine Corps will operate these systems, which are central to Manila’s anti-access and area-denial strategy in contested maritime zones.

The BrahMos missile itself is a supersonic cruise missile capable of speeds up to Mach 2.8 and ranges exceeding 290 kilometres in its export variant. The system has already been integrated into Philippine defence exercises, including joint drills with the United States, where it demonstrated its role in strengthening coastal defence and interoperability.

The missile’s speed and precision provide Manila with a credible deterrent against hostile naval forces, particularly in the South China Sea.

The sighting of the final batch comes shortly after Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio confirmed that deliveries under the BrahMos program were progressing satisfactorily.

Manila has consistently described the missile as a cornerstone of its emerging deterrence architecture, enhancing its ability to defend territorial waters and maritime approaches.

The Coastal Defence Regiment, established specifically for this purpose, will now have three fully equipped batteries to deploy across strategic locations such as Luzon and Palawan.

India’s completion of this contract underscores its growing role as a defence exporter. BrahMos Aerospace has reported strong revenues, and the missile system has attracted interest from other Southeast Asian nations including Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand.

The Philippines’ acquisition has therefore not only strengthened its own defence posture but also reinforced India’s credibility in the global arms market.

The final delivery marks a significant milestone in Indo-Philippine defence cooperation. For Manila, it represents the culmination of a program that enhances deterrence against regional threats.

For India, it highlights the success of its Make in India initiative in defence exports and the strategic importance of the BrahMos system in the Indo-Pacific security architecture.

Agencies

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China Expands Military Build-Up With New Yagong Island Construction In South China Sea

Satellite imagery confirms that China has begun new construction on Yagong Island in the Paracel Islands, just 14 km from Antelope Reef, where Beijing is developing its largest artificial island, Reuters reported.

Analysts believe the new structures could serve as radar or surveillance facilities, strengthening China’s military footprint in the northern South China Sea, though Beijing insists they are for civilian use.

Satellite images taken in August 2026 show fresh installations on Yagong Island, part of the Crescent Group in the Paracels. The construction began earlier this year, with three-pronged structures now visible.

Security experts suggest these resemble radar or early-warning facilities similar to those China has deployed elsewhere in the South China Sea. Their proximity to Antelope Reef indicates they may be designed to support the larger base under development there.

Antelope Reef itself has undergone extensive land reclamation, creating an artificial island nearly 6 km long. Analysts note that its straight coastline, stretching over 3 km, could eventually accommodate a runway.

This would make Antelope Reef one of China’s most strategically significant outposts in the northern South China Sea, extending its reach closer to Vietnam and enhancing its ability to project power across contested waters.

Yagong Island, though smaller, is strategically positioned to complement Antelope Reef. Together, they form part of a broader Chinese effort to consolidate control over the Paracels, which Beijing seized from South Vietnam in 1974.

Vietnam continues to claim sovereignty over the entire archipelago, while other nations including the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei also maintain overlapping claims in the wider South China Sea.

China’s defence ministry has not commented on the new construction, and state media continue to frame the developments as serving civilian purposes such as weather forecasting, fisheries protection, and scientific research.

However, the dual-use nature of the facilities raises concerns among regional analysts, who argue that they could significantly enhance China’s surveillance and military presence in the area.

The timing of these developments is notable, as tensions in the South China Sea remain high. The region is increasingly militarised, with the United States and its allies conducting freedom of navigation operations to challenge China’s expansive claims.

Analysts warn that the new installations could play a critical role in any future conflict over Taiwan, given their location in the northern South China Sea.

Vietnam has responded by expanding its own network of bases in the Spratly Islands further south, underscoring the escalating contest for control of strategic maritime territory.

The construction on Yagong Island adds another layer to this competition, highlighting Beijing’s determination to strengthen its hold on the Paracels and extend its influence across the Indo-Pacific.

Agencies

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Philippines Reportedly Plans Nine More BrahMos Batteries To Strengthen Deterrence Against China

The Philippines is reportedly considering the purchase of up to nine additional BrahMos coastal missile batteries from India in a move aimed at countering the growing Chinese threat in the South China Sea.

This development would significantly strengthen the so-called ‘BrahMos Belt’, a chain of Southeast Asian shores equipped with the supersonic missile system, creating a broad arc of defences across ASEAN nations that complicates Beijing’s ambitions in the region, a report said.

India had earlier signed a $375 million deal in January 2022 to supply three BrahMos batteries to the Philippines. These shore-based anti-ship batteries were entrusted to the Philippine Marine Corps’ Coastal Defence Regiment, with the agreement covering training, maintenance, logistics, mobile launchers, radars, and command elements. The presence of BrahMos in Manila has already enhanced India’s credibility as a defence export power.

The BrahMos system made its combat debut during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, where it played a decisive role, further boosting its reputation as a battle-tested weapon. The Philippine Marine Corps has already revealed its first BrahMos missile battery, underscoring the operational integration of the system into its coastal defence architecture.

The Philippines was the first country to order BrahMos missiles, but the ‘BrahMos Belt’ expanded as Vietnam and Indonesia also decided to induct the Indo-Russian weapon into their arsenals.

Thailand is reportedly considering acquiring the supersonic projectiles as well, which would further consolidate the missile chain across Southeast Asia.

Philippines Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio had earlier emphasised that the BrahMos missile system provides Manila with a credible deterrent. He explained that its speed and long range significantly strengthen the country’s defence posture, bestowing on the Philippines a measure of anti-access and area denial capability.

This, he noted, raises the costs for any potential aggressor and reconfigures operational calculations in the event of conflict.

The latest reports suggest that Manila’s potential acquisition of more BrahMos batteries would be part of its Integrated Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile System initiative.

The objective is to reinforce the three existing batteries operated by the Marine Corps, enabling protection of larger areas, multiple launch positions, and improved salvo density.

If implemented at maximum scale, the program would transform BrahMos from a concentrated Marine capability into a joint Army-Marine fires architecture spanning Luzon, Palawan, and other strategically exposed approaches across the archipelago. This would represent a significant expansion of the Philippines’ deterrence posture.

However, no Philippine authority has publicly confirmed a final nine-battery order, signed contract, or approved quantity. The reported expansion remains an evolving requirement, dependent upon negotiations, budgeting, and formal authorisation. Malaysia-based Defence Security Asia, which broke the news, highlighted that the scale of the acquisition is still subject to official decisions.

The potential expansion of BrahMos deployment in the Philippines reflects a broader regional trend of missile-based deterrence strategies among ASEAN nations. It also underscores India’s growing role as a reliable defence exporter, with the BrahMos system becoming a cornerstone of Southeast Asian coastal defence against Chinese naval expansion.

Agencies

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Philippines Confirms BrahMos Deliveries On Track, Seeks Deeper Defence Cooperation With India

The Philippines has confirmed that deliveries of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems from India are progressing smoothly, with Manila emphasising that the weapon provides a vital measure of credible deterrence as it strengthens its territorial defence posture amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.

Ambassador Josel F Ignacio stated that the BrahMos deal has not only enhanced the Philippines’ defence capabilities but has also reshaped Manila’s perception of India as a reliable defence partner.

Speaking at an Observer Research Foundation roundtable on Southeast Asia, Ignacio noted that the deliveries are ongoing and expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project. He was asked about reports suggesting that the Philippines may seek up to nine additional BrahMos batteries from India. While he did not confirm a specific number or timeline, he indicated that Manila is keen to expand the cooperation further.

Ignacio explained that the BrahMos system is providing the Philippines with real credible deterrence and fits into the country’s broader effort to modernise its armed forces and strengthen its territorial defence posture. He stressed that the acquisition supports the modernisation program and enhances deterrence against territorial challenges.

The envoy highlighted that the BrahMos project has elevated India’s profile within the Philippine defence establishment. He said the project demonstrated India’s credibility and reliability as a source of quality defence equipment, thereby raising New Delhi’s standing in Manila’s military circles.

Ignacio also suggested that the partnership could evolve beyond procurement, with Manila interested in learning from India’s experience in building an indigenous defence industry. He said the Philippines is considering cooperation with India to develop similar capabilities domestically, drawing inspiration from India’s defence industrial growth.

The Philippines was India’s first foreign customer for the BrahMos missile system, and the deal has become one of the most visible examples of India’s expanding defence engagement with Southeast Asia.

Ignacio described India as more than just a bilateral partner, calling it a major ASEAN partner and a constructive force in the wider region. He emphasised the civilizational links, shared democratic traditions, and common commitment to an international order governed by law that underpin the relationship.

Trade remains an area with considerable scope for growth. Ignacio said both sides are working towards a preferential trade agreement to expand market access and diversify the range of goods traded. He noted that Indian companies already have a strong presence in the Philippines, particularly in IT, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, and financial services.

On the South China Sea, Ignacio reiterated that the Philippines values India’s support for the 2016 arbitral award in the South China Sea arbitration case, which marked its tenth anniversary this year. He said India’s backing of the award continues to hold importance for Manila as it navigates regional challenges.

Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to India, Karlito Nunes, also spoke at the roundtable, stressing that Southeast Asia is crucial for India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

He highlighted maritime security in the South China Sea as a major challenge, noting its importance not only for security but also for trade, energy, fisheries, and connectivity. Nunes described India as an important partner for Timor-Leste both bilaterally and in the broader Southeast Asian context.

The ORF roundtable brought together the ambassadors of the Philippines and Timor-Leste to discuss regional challenges and India’s expanding engagement with Southeast Asia, underscoring the growing strategic importance of India’s partnerships in the region.

ANI

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After Acquiring India’s Akash-1S, Armenia Eyes Upgraded Akash-NG Missiles As Global Export Momentum Builds

Armenia is now exploring India’s upgraded Akash-NG missile system after the combat success of Akash during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, marking a major step in its defence diversification away from Russia.

The system’s battlefield validation has also sparked interest from Brazil and the Philippines, positioning India as a rising global arms exporter.

Operation Sindoor gave India’s Akash missile family something no brochure could: a proven battlefield record. During the May 2025 conflict, Akash was deployed as part of India’s layered air-defence network against Pakistani drones and missiles. The government described its performance as “stellar”, a verdict that has transformed Akash from a domestic product into a globally marketable system.

Armenia, already a customer of Akash, Pinaka rocket launchers and Swathi radars, is now reportedly considering the Akash-NG. This next-generation variant offers extended range, faster reaction times and advanced radar technology, making it a significant upgrade over the Akash-1S. Armenia’s interest reflects its urgent need to strengthen deterrence against Azerbaijan, which is backed militarily by Türkiye and Pakistan.

The move also highlights Yerevan’s shift away from reliance on Russian-origin systems, a trend accelerated by Moscow’s reduced supply capacity due to the Ukraine war.

India has already delivered Akash-1S batteries to Armenia, with the first consignment arriving in late 2024. These included launchers, Rajendra fire-control radars and seeker-equipped missiles capable of intercepting aircraft, cruise missiles and drones at ranges of up to 30 kilometres.

The Akash-NG, however, extends engagement envelopes to nearly 70–80 kilometres, supported by Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars for superior detection and tracking. This capability leap is precisely why Armenia is keen to integrate the NG variant into its air-defence architecture.

Armenia’s defence modernisation program also includes discussions with India on Pralay tactical ballistic missiles and upgrades for Su-30 fighter aircraft.

Together, these acquisitions form part of a broader deterrence posture aimed at countering Azerbaijan’s expanding arsenal, which includes Turkish-origin drones and Pakistani-supplied JF-17 Block-III fighters. The Akash-NG would provide Armenia with a more layered and survivable air-defence shield, complementing its existing systems.

The bigger story is India’s emergence as a credible arms exporter. Operation Sindoor has changed the sales pitch permanently, giving Indian systems combat validation that resonates with potential buyers. Brazil and the Philippines are among the countries reportedly evaluating Akash variants, with the Philippines particularly interested in affordable air-defence solutions to counter regional threats in the South China Sea. Brazil, meanwhile, is exploring options to strengthen its air-defence network amid growing concerns over aerial incursions and regional instability.

India’s defence industry, led by Bharat Electronics Limited, Bharat Dynamics Limited, Larsen & Toubro and Tata Advanced Systems, has demonstrated the ability to deliver complex systems in partnership.

This collaborative ecosystem is now being showcased to international buyers, with Akash serving as the flagship product. The missile’s export momentum underscores India’s ambition to become a major supplier of affordable, combat-proven technology to countries across Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America.

Difference Between The Two Systems

System	Range	Key Advantage	Notes
Akash-1S	~30 km	Indigenous active seeker	Affordable, proven, effective against drones/aircraft
Akash-NG	70–80 km	AESA radar, improved reaction time	Advanced detection, longer reach, modern threat handling

The Akash-NG’s success will be a litmus test for India’s defence export strategy. If Armenia proceeds with procurement, it will not only strengthen Yerevan’s security but also validate India’s role as a reliable supplier of advanced air-defence systems.

For Brazil and the Philippines, the system’s battlefield record offers reassurance that they are investing in proven technology rather than untested prototypes.

India’s rise as an arms exporter is reshaping regional dynamics. By supplying Armenia, New Delhi is indirectly countering the Türkiye–Pakistan–Azerbaijan nexus in the Caucasus.

By courting Brazil and the Philippines, it is extending its defence footprint into Latin America and Southeast Asia. The Akash-NG thus represents more than a missile—it is a symbol of India’s growing strategic reach.

Agencies

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