A Filipino analyst specializing in military affairs has revealed the mantra that would make India the numero uno defense partner of the Philippines.
"If India aspires to become the dominant supplier of the Philippine military it needs to embed its diplomatic staff and defense ministry staff in the armed forces and the inner circle of policy in the current administration of President Marcos Jr.," Miguel Miranda, the publisher of the defense portal 21st Century Asian Arms Race told Sputnik India on Tuesday.
He reckoned that India would need permanent agents in the Philippines who will meticulously follow the ebb and flow of military procurement and seize opportunities when these arise.
The Manila-based aerospace expert's comments come in the wake of 20 Indian firms associated with the South Asian nation's military-industrial complex participating in the maiden Philippines-India defense seminar last week.
Subsequently, reports emerged that India's aviation behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has offered its LCA Tejas aircraft for both its Air Force and Marines. Additionally, India has reportedly offered the Philippines to set up an assembly line of its homegrown fighter jet in the archipelago.
The assembly production unit in the Southeast Asian country would be established in collaboration with the Philippine Aerospace Development Corp (PADC).
Besides the naval and air force variants of the LCA Tejas, Manila is also interested in acquiring 155mm artillery shells from New Delhi.
To make the deals sweeter for the Philippines, India is planning to provide the archipelago country with soft loans.
"Indian manufacturers, especially those in the military-industrial sector, are no doubt excited about the Philippines as a client and partner after the historic success of the BrahMos deal," Miranda opined.
However, India needs to understand that an ally such as the Philippines spends well below its means when it comes to military procurement, he expressed.
"There's a bright spot though - the Philippine Armed Forces are putting together a new 'Horizon' multi-year procurement plan where many different technologies will be receiving tenders," Miranda highlighted.
Furthermore, New Delhi would do well if some generosity is at play, whether donating equipment or offering to train and equip Filipino troops, he suggested.
"With regards to any aircraft exports to the Philippines, this has been a slow process and will continue to be slow although there are some potential breakthroughs in the medium term such as spare parts, flight equipment, and radars. Perhaps weapon systems, eventually," Miranda concluded.