On August 5, 2025, India and the Philippines formally upgraded their relationship to a Strategic Partnership during a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Delhi . Modi described the strengthening of defence ties as a “symbol of deep mutual trust,” and a comprehensive action plan was unveiled to translate potential into tangible results.

Defence cooperation now forms the core of this enhanced framework. The partnership builds on a $375 million BrahMos missile deal from India to the Philippines, marking the first export of the supersonic cruise system . The second battery delivery took place in April 2025, with a third batch expected soon .

The partnership also includes joint naval drills, with India’s INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan sailing alongside Philippine frigates in the South China Sea, highlighting shared concern over regional stability . Manila has further expressed interest in acquiring more Indian defence platforms, including Tejas fighter jets, under broader military cooperation .

Beyond security, the strategic partnership encompasses agreements across digital technology, tourism, science, space, and legal cooperation—13 new MOUs outline collaboration through 2029.