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

China Says US Tariff Hikes Violate WTO Rules

China is among the hardest-hit, facing a 34 per cent levy—part of what Washington describes as reciprocal measures aimed at rebalancing trade deficits and curbing unfair trade practices China has strongly condemned

Modi Due in Sri Lanka to Cement Ties

Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha described the visit to island nation as “very important” and likely will set a fresh agenda for bilateral cooperation Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit

India Acts as ‘First Responder’ in Myanmar: Jaishankar

Jaishankar took the opportunity to underscore India’s swift humanitarian response, highlighting Operation Brahma, which was launched to assist those affected by the earthquake. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday expressed India’s
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Sudan Army urges Saudi-US help to restart negotiation

The statement renewed the Army’s desire to lessen the suffering

For India, Trump win may pave way for FTA talks

The US is India’s largest trading partner and the bilateral