The Philippines' purchase of BrahMos missiles from India sends a potent message to Beijing, escalating the stakes in the disputed West Philippine Sea, according to defense expert Atty. Josephus B. Jimenez.
In a strongly-worded opinion piece, Jimenez suggests the BrahMos could be deployed as a deterrent against Chinese vessels in the region, where tensions between the two nations have been steadily rising. He argues the Philippines is "no longer alone," citing a growing network of defense partnerships with nations including India, Japan, Australia, and those with whom it shares a mutual defense treaty with the United States.
Jimenez provides background on the historic arms deal, outlining the missiles' capabilities while stressing the morale boost they provide to Philippine forces. He cautions, however, against solely relying on military solutions and calls for continued diplomacy.
Whether the missile acquisition marks a turning point in the West Philippine Sea conflict remains to be seen. However, analysts agree the arrival of the BrahMos system significantly alters the strategic landscape.
