India’s defence relationship with the Philippines could expand beyond the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, with Manila reportedly considering the indigenous Akash air-defence system for a future acquisition.Reports indicate that the Philippines could pursue an agreement valued at roughly $200 million for Akash systems. If completed, the procurement would represent another significant Indian defence export and broaden the military capabilities Manila obtains from New Delhi.The potential sale would be different from the Philippines’ existing BrahMos acquisition. While BrahMos provides a long-range strike capability, Akash is intended to defend ground installations and other important assets against aerial threats.The Philippines has already established itself as an important customer for Indian defence equipment. In 2022, Manila signed a $375 million agreement for three shore-based BrahMos batteries. Deliveries of those systems have since taken place.Interest in additional Indian systems comes as the Philippines continues strengthening its military capabilities amid security concerns in the South China Sea. The country has been seeking equipment that can improve its ability to monitor and respond to emerging regional threats.Akash could provide a medium-range ground-based air-defence layer capable of engaging various aerial targets. Depending on its configuration, the system can contribute to the protection of military installations and other strategically important locations.Earlier reporting also indicated that Philippine authorities had shown interest in the Indian air-defence platform. A potential agreement would therefore represent the continuation of discussions rather than an entirely new area of cooperation.For India, a successful Akash export would have wider strategic value. It would demonstrate that Indian defence exports can extend beyond a single high-profile weapon and encompass multiple categories of military equipment.The combination of BrahMos and Akash could also give Manila two complementary capabilities. One would provide long-range coastal strike, while the other would strengthen protection against aerial threats.Such a procurement could enhance India’s position as a defence supplier for countries seeking alternatives to equipment sourced from traditional Western suppliers or China. It would also strengthen New Delhi’s defence-industrial relationships across Southeast Asia.Any final agreement would depend on negotiations, technical requirements, financing, and government approval. Nevertheless, reported Philippine interest in Akash highlights the growing international profile of India’s indigenous missile systems.
