Tensions in the South China Sea escalated over the weekend as US and Philippine forces conducted integrated defense drills, just hours after China claimed it had seized control of a disputed reef near Philippine territory.
Missiles were fired off the coast of northern Philippines on Sunday during the annual “Balikatan” exercises, which this year involve a record 17,000 troops. The drills simulate a “full-scale battle scenario,” aiming to bolster the treaty allies’ readiness and deter China’s increasingly aggressive maneuvers in the contested waters.
The drills came shortly after Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that China’s coast guard had “implemented maritime control” over Tiexian Reef — also known as Sandy Cay — a sandbank near Thitu Island (Pag-asa), where the Philippines maintains a military outpost. Manila has yet to formally respond to China’s latest claim.
Meanwhile, in Zambales province, north of Manila, AFP journalists witnessed the US Marine Corps deploy its new MADIS (Marine Air Defense Integrated System) to shoot down drones during a coastal defense exercise.
Working alongside the Philippine military’s SPYDER missile system, the two defense networks intercepted simulated incoming cruise missiles, showcasing their growing interoperability.
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“MADIS is short-range. SPYDER provides medium-range defense. Together, they create a more comprehensive shield,” said Matthew Sladek, commander of the US 3rd Littoral Anti-Air Battalion. “The more we train together, the stronger and more lethal our collective force becomes.”
Adding to the tension, Chinese warships have been spotted near Philippine waters since the Balikatan drills began last week.
On April 22, the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong was detected just over two nautical miles southwest of Babuyan Island in northern Philippines. The Philippine Navy also reported the presence of three other Chinese vessels near Zambales over the weekend.
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In light of the rising confrontations, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently reaffirmed America’s commitment to its alliance with the Philippines, stressing the importance of deterrence in the face of “threats from Communist China.”
Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun condemned the Balikatan exercises, claiming they jeopardize regional peace and stability.
The drills are set to continue Monday, with forces simulating a defense against an amphibious landing on Palawan island, underscoring the allies’ efforts to prepare for a range of potential threats in the contested region.
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