U.S ,Philippine 

US and Philippine forces conduct joint military exercises in the South China Sea, sinking a decommissioned Philippine Navy ship as part of simulated attack drills amid escalating tensions with China.

In recent developments, the United States and the Philippines joined forces in military exercises aimed at enhancing their readiness and cooperation in the face of escalating tensions in the South China Sea. The exercises took place near Laoag, approximately 400 kilometers south of Taiwan, an area witnessing increased confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels over territorial claims.

During these drills, a decommissioned Philippine Navy ship, the BRP Lake Caliraya, was intentionally sunk as part of a simulated attack on an enemy vessel. This exercise involved a coordinated effort, with participation from navy vessels, air force units, and land-based artillery from both the Philippine and US military.

Lieutenant-Colonel Omar Al Assaf, the lead Philippine planner for the activity, emphasized the mission's focus on preventing potential aggressors from landing on Philippine soil. This joint effort showcased the lethal effectiveness of collaboration between the US and Philippine armed forces.

Lieutenant-Colonel Matt Cahill, commander of a US Army unit involved in the exercises, highlighted the importance of teamwork and preparation in achieving military objectives. He likened the joint exercises to team sports, emphasizing the need for prior practice to ensure seamless coordination during critical operations.

Addressing concerns regarding the choice of a China-made ship as the target, Philippine Navy Chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci clarified that the vessel had been in Philippine service for a considerable period, dismissing any symbolic significance attached to its use in the drills.

These joint military exercises, known as Balikatan, meaning "shoulder to shoulder" in Tagalog, involve over 16,700 troops from both countries and are conducted annually in various locations across the Philippines. Recent activities included live-fire exercises and simulations aimed at repelling hypothetical invasion forces.

The backdrop to these exercises is the ongoing dispute over territorial claims in the South China Sea, with Beijing asserting sovereignty over vast swathes of the region despite a ruling against its claims by an international tribunal. China's aggressive maritime posture, characterized by the deployment of numerous coast guard and navy vessels, has raised concerns among neighboring countries.

In response to inquiries about the drills, China's foreign ministry cautioned against military activities that could harm the interests of third parties. Spokesman Lin Jian urged regional countries to recognize the party responsible for provoking tensions in the region.

In summary, the joint military exercises between the US and the Philippines serve as a demonstration of their commitment to enhancing bilateral defense cooperation and readiness amid growing challenges in the South China Sea. These exercises underscore the importance of collective security efforts in maintaining stability and safeguarding regional interests.