India is enhancing its defense exports and strategic partnerships with Southeast Asian nations, notably Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, amidst escalating maritime tensions in the South China Sea. Recent discussions between Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Indonesian officials have focused on the supply of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, positioning Indonesia as a key regional partner alongside the Philippines. These collaborations are aligned with India’s Act East Policy and aim to bolster regional security through comprehensive strategic partnerships, troop training, and joint exercises. Such initiatives not only promote defense interoperability but also reinforce a rules-based order in crucial maritime routes, reflecting India’s commitment to countering regional assertiveness and diversifying defense cooperation amid global geopolitical uncertainties.