Philippines Commander States Indonesia Has Purchased Brahmos Missiles from India

NEW DELHI — The Commander-in-Chief of the Philippine Armed Forces, General Romeo Saturnino Brawner Jr, attended the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi, India last week. He expressed the Philippines’ willingness to conduct greater military business with India. This is driven by the Philippines’ successful acquisition of Brahmos missiles in 2022 at a cost of $375 million (approximately 6.35 trillion rupiahs).

During the interview, Brawner disclosed that Indonesia has also purchased supersonic Brahmos missiles from India. “…The Philippines was the first country (in Southeast Asia) to purchase the Brahmos missile system. Now Indonesia has purchased the same system,” he stated, as quoted by Asian News International (ANI).

“I can say that we are pleased with our purchase, and hopefully we can conduct more business with India,” Brawner added. The Philippines, known as a close ally of the United States, has been in dispute with China over the latter’s aggressive stance in the South China Sea. The Philippines has accused China of using intimidating maritime tactics, such as deploying coast guard vessels that discharge water cannons and conducting dangerous manoeuvres including ramming Manila’s vessels.

Although Brawner stated that Indonesia has signed an agreement for Brahmos missiles, the Indian government has not yet officially announced it. However, government sources stated that the contract is nearing the finalisation stage.