April 22, 2024
1 min read

US, Philippines start drills in SCS

The U.S. military’s deployment of a missile system adds a new dimension, drawing attention to the exercise’s broader geopolitical implications…reports Asian Lite News

In the Philippines, nearly 17,000 Filipino and American troops commenced a three-week joint combat training exercise, including maritime drills in the contentious South China Sea. The involvement of France and Australia, bolstering defence ties with Manila amidst China’s assertiveness, underscores the strategic importance of the region.

Notably, this year’s Balikatan exercises mark a departure from tradition, with allies sailing beyond the Philippines’ baseline off western Palawan, challenging territorial boundaries in the South China Sea, according to Reuters report.

The U.S. military’s deployment of a missile system adds a new dimension, drawing attention to the exercise’s broader geopolitical implications.

While Philippine military officials emphasize the drills’ logistical nature, retired PLA researcher Cao Weidong interprets them as a signal of strategic intent, prompting considerations of potential responses from China. Maritime encounters between the Philippines and China underscore the tensions underlying the exercises, though officials stress their defensive nature.

Simulated scenarios, including sinking an “enemy ship” and retaking Philippine islands, demonstrate the exercise’s scope, aiming to enhance military interoperability and readiness. The involvement of air and missile defense systems underscores the exercise’s complexity and strategic relevance.

U.S. Lt. Gen. William Jurney emphasizes the exercises’ adherence to international law and norms, rejecting the notion of aggression. However, Beijing perceives them as provocative, exacerbating regional tensions and challenging its maritime claims.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration’s 2016 ruling against China’s claims adds legal weight to the Philippines’ position, but China’s military build-up in the region continues unabated. As joint exercises simulate scenarios near Taiwan and in the South China Sea, they serve as a display of military prowess and a reaffirmation of commitment to regional stability.

Overall, the Balikatan exercises reflect the intricate dynamics of the South China Sea dispute, balancing military deterrence with diplomatic maneuvering amidst growing assertiveness from Beijing.

ALSO READ-US, Japan, Philippines, rebuke China over South China Sea moves

Previous Story

‘Earth Day drives UAE’s circular Economy agenda’

Next Story

India reiterates its partnership with OPEC

Latest from -Top News

India invites Rishi Sunak to its AI summit in 2026

India to host world’s first Global South AI summit in 2026, with Ashwini Vaishnaw inviting Rishi Sunak to join global talks on responsible, inclusive artificial intelligence. India’s Union Minister for Electronics and

Kerala CM, Bahrain Deputy PM discuss boosting ties

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s Bahrain visit deepens Kerala’s engagement with the Gulf, focusing on trade, investment, and diaspora welfare as both sides reaffirm shared interests in development and cultural exchange. Kerala Chief

Kerala CM begins Gulf tour

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan begins Gulf tour in Bahrain, engaging expatriate community and promoting welfare initiatives for NRKs, strengthening diaspora ties and showcasing Kerala’s development achievements….reports Asian Lite News Kerala Chief Minister

Delhi Dismisses Trump’s Oil Claim

India’s foreign ministry says it is “not aware” of a phone call in which Donald Trump claimed Narendra Modi agreed to halt Russian oil purchases…reports Asian Lite News India’s foreign ministry has
Go toTop

Don't Miss

India invited to ministerial meeting on food crisis convened by US

The ministerial meeting will be followed by a Security Council

India-Philippines Defence Cooperation Committee hold talks

The co-chairs reviewed the outcomes of the third Service-to-Service interactions