US, Philippines and Japan Begin Largest Joint Military Drills Amid Regional Tensions
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Apr 20
US, Philippines and Japan Begin Largest Joint Military Drills Amid Regional Tensions
54 articles · Updated · Reuters · Apr 20
The US and Philippines have launched their largest-ever Balikatan military exercises, joined for the first time by a significant Japanese contingent.
Over 17,000 troops from several nations are conducting live-fire drills near the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea amid regional tensions.
The exercises highlight growing security ties to deter China, as Beijing warns the drills risk increasing division and confrontation in the Asia-Pacific.
Will the largest-ever Balikatan drills deter conflict or provoke a crisis in the South China Sea?
How does the US balance its military focus on Asia while managing a major conflict with Iran?
With Japan now an active participant, is an 'Asian NATO' forming to counter China?
Beyond military might, what are the real economic benefits for the Philippines from this renewed alliance?
As Manila deepens its security ties with Washington, what is the future of its relationship with Beijing?
Can the Philippines host foreign missile systems without becoming a primary target in a future conflict?