The Philippines is intensifying its defense partnership with India as it pushes forward its military modernization agenda, with recent developments highlighting a significant expansion in both defense procurement and naval cooperation. Over the past three days, Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. reaffirmed Manila’s commitment to acquiring a range of advanced Indian-made military equipment. Central to this collaboration is the ongoing delivery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems, with the second batch shipped by sea in April and a third battery scheduled for delivery by December 2025. Negotiations are underway for additional BrahMos units, and Philippine officials are also evaluating other Indian platforms, including the Akash air defense system, Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, and Indian-built warships. This broadened interest coincides with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to India, during which both nations agreed to launch a joint maritime exercise in the West Philippine Sea starting August 3, marking their first bilateral “maritime cooperative activity.” The arrival of Indian Navy ships INS Mysore, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti in Manila signals deepening maritime ties and operational planning aimed at bolstering regional security. These efforts underscore the Philippines’ determination to strengthen its deterrence amid tensions in the South China Sea, while India advances its role as a trusted defense supplier and strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific.