What's happened
The United States and the Philippines have conducted their largest-ever joint military exercises, known as Balikatan, from April 22 to May 12, 2024. These drills included live fire exercises and simulated maritime invasions, aimed at enhancing military readiness and deterring potential aggression from China. Concurrently, the US and Taiwan navies held joint drills in the Pacific, focusing on communications and handling unexpected scenarios at sea. These activities come amid rising tensions with China, which has been increasing its military presence around Taiwan and the South China Sea.
Why it matters
The joint military exercises between the United States, the Philippines, and Taiwan are significant due to the rising tensions with China. These drills demonstrate a show of force and a commitment to regional security, particularly in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. The exercises are likely to impact diplomatic relations and could lead to further military posturing by China. For readers, this highlights the importance of international alliances and the potential for conflict in the region, which could have broader implications for global stability and security.
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, the Balikatan exercises have shifted focus towards the Taiwan Strait, indicating a more offensive stance by the US-Philippines military alliance. Business Insider UK reports that the US and Taiwan navies conducted joint drills in April, which were not officially confirmed due to China's objections. The Japan Times highlights the increasing military cooperation between the US and Taiwan amid daily Chinese incursions into Taiwan's air defense identification zone. The Independent notes that the live fire exercises in Laoag, Philippines, were part of the largest-ever Balikatan drills, aimed at deterring Chinese aggression.
How we got here
The Balikatan military exercises are an annual event between the United States and the Philippines, aimed at enhancing military readiness and cooperation. This year's drills, the largest since they began in 1991, included over 16,000 military personnel and expanded beyond the Philippines' territorial waters. The exercises come amid increasing Chinese military activities in the South China Sea and around Taiwan, raising concerns about potential conflicts. The US has been reinforcing its military alliances in Asia to counter China's assertive actions, while the Philippines has shifted its focus to external defense under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Common question
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