AFP eyes more missiles, warships, and jets to boost defense capabilities

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is planning for the acquisition of more missile systems, warships, and multi-role fighter jets, as part of strengthening and enhancing the country's “reliable deterrent force.”

In a statement on Saturday, AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. said the move would complete the integration of the military’s air and missile defense capabilities.

AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. outlined this initiative during his participation in the Raisina Dialogue, held in New Delhi, India, from March 17 to 19, 2025.

“We are looking at acquiring more missile systems to complete the integration of our air and missile defense. Alongside this, we will be purchasing more warships and multi-role fighter jets to build a strong and reliable deterrent force,” Brawner said.

Brawner noted that the AFP’s modernization roadmap is anchored on a long-term strategy “focused on enhancing both capability and deterrence.”

He then cited India as the country’s vital partner in modernizing military assets.

“Beyond procurement, we are looking into joint manufacturing, technology transfer, and local production in the Philippines to support our growing defense industry,” he added.

Brawner’s participation in the Raisina Dialogue marks the AFP’s inaugural attendance at the annual conference, underscoring the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening international cooperation and tackling shared security challenges.

India has recently delivered the Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile System procured by the Philippine government from BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd., a defense material production company.

The acquisition deal includes the delivery of three missile batteries, each of which will consist of mobile autonomous launchers and tracking systems.

The missile asset is seen to improve the Philippine Navy's firepower, particularly the Philippine Marine Corps' Coast Defense Regiment.

The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system will provide counter-attack capabilities within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.

Both the Philippines and India have been close partners in development and capacity building, as well as committed to adhering to a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Previously, a report published by an Indian media outlet, Adda 24/7 Current Affairs, mentioned that India is set to finalize a $200 million deal with the Philippines for its Akash surface-to-air missile system this year.

Army Commanding General LtGen. Roy Galido clarified that the acquisition of a short-range missile system for the Philippine Army is still under review.

Galido further said the Army has already started identifying which missile platforms are suited to its operations toward external defense.