The United States and the Philippines launched their annual joint military drills on Monday, involving around 14,000 troops in full-scale combat scenarios designed to strengthen defence cooperation and regional security.
Thousands of American and Filipino troops have launched joint military exercises simulating the defence of the Asian archipelago, including a mock island invasion, in a large-scale drill that has drawn sharp criticism from China.
The annual Balikatan (Tagalog for “shoulder to shoulder”) exercises, which will run until 9 May, involve around 9,000 US and 5,000 Filipino military personnel.
Australian forces have also joined and Japan and other nations have sent observers.
US and Philippine military leaders described this year’s drill as a “full-scale battle scenario,” featuring warships, fighter jets and high-powered weaponry, including a US Marine anti-ship missile system.
“It’s all dedicated to one purpose: to ensure the defence of the Philippines and to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
Although not explicitly naming China, the drills come amid growing friction over Beijing’s territorial claims in the South China Sea, which overlap with Philippine waters.
China has long opposed foreign military exercises in the region, especially those involving the United States.
“We are ready,” Glynn added when asked about potential threats in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. “All of us want to resolve any regional conflict peacefully, but should deterrence fail, we need to be prepared.”
Philippine army Major General Francisco Lorenzo said the exercises are not targeted at any nation, but instead aim to boost national defence and enhance cooperation between the allies.
