Four Indian Navy vessels are scheduled to make a port call in the Philippines this July, in a move aimed at deepening maritime and defense cooperation between the two countries, Indian Ambassador Shri Harsh Kumar Jain said Friday. The visit is part of India’s bilateral defense engagement with the Philippines.
Speaking at the Stratbase ADRI forum in Makati City, Jain said the ships’ arrival will coincide with joint activities between the Indian and Philippine navies. These include maritime cooperation efforts, military exchanges, and capacity building.
“India and the Philippines share common interests in maritime security and the promotion of a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific,” Jain said. He added that both countries are strong advocates of international maritime law and freedom of navigation. Rex Espiritu
The ambassador also highlighted India’s willingness to support the Philippines’ defense modernization, including the delivery of more advanced platforms beyond the BrahMos missile systems. Areas of cooperation may include air defense, surveillance, reconnaissance, and disaster response.
India and the Philippines are also finalizing talks for regular service-level dialogues among their armed forces, including the Navy, Air Force, and Army. Jain said New Delhi is ready to share its vast military expertise to help the Philippines enhance its defense capabilities.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “4 Indian Navy ships to make port call in Manila — envoy”
