Philippines and India Conduct Joint Naval Exercises Amid Rising Tensions with China

In a significant military collaboration, the Philippines and India have engaged in joint naval exercises in the South China Sea, marking the first such operation aimed at enhancing maritime security in this contested region. Conducted over two days, these drills are expected to stir tensions with China, which claims the majority of the maritime territory amid ongoing disputes with both nations. General Romeo Brawner, the chief of staff of the Filipino armed forces, confirmed the launch of the exercises on Sunday, indicating that they have thus far been successful despite the presence of Chinese naval forces shadowing the operations. Brawner noted, "We did not experience any untoward incident but we were still shadowed. We expected that already." In past joint operations, the Philippine military has reported that Chinese navy and coast guard vessels have monitored from a distance, reflecting the tense atmosphere surrounding the South China Sea, a vital global trade route bordering several Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. China's territorial claims in the South China Sea have been a source of significant regional friction, particularly with the Philippines and India. The situation has been exacerbated by China’s recent accusations against the Philippines, labeling it a "troublemaker" for aligning with foreign powers, including the United States, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and France, in maritime patrols intended to bolster freedom of navigation and counter Chinese assertiveness. In response to these provocations, Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, speaking for China's Ministry of National Defence, insisted that China is steadfast in safeguarding its territorial rights and will take decisive measures against what it perceives as provocations. Brawner defended the necessity of the joint drills with India, highlighting that the Philippines aims to forge partnerships with like-minded nations for its defense. He emphasized that strengthening and modernizing the country's military is essential for ensuring regional stability and upholding a rules-based international order. The timing of these naval exercises coincides with an upcoming five-day state visit by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos to India, where he is expected to engage in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on various mutual interests including defense, trade, investment, agriculture, tourism, and pharmaceuticals. As the geopolitical dynamics in the South China Sea continue to evolve, both Manila and New Delhi are asserting their commitments to maritime security and regional cooperation, signaling a shift towards more proactive engagement against external threats. The joint naval exercises represent a critical step in forging stronger ties between the Philippines and India while concurrently challenging China's expansive claims in the region. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2