August 4, 2025

In a significant move that marks a new chapter in military cooperation, India and the Philippines have conducted their first joint naval exercises in the contentious waters of the South China Sea. This unprecedented military activity, which took place over two days, was met with immediate disapproval from China, which has ongoing territorial disputes with both nations. The exercises, described by General Romeo Brawner, the chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, as successful, signal a deeper strategic partnership between the two democracies in Asia. Brawner expressed optimism that Philippine forces would engage India’s military in more collaborative exercises in the future. As the joint sail unfolded, Chinese naval vessels, including a guided-missile destroyer, were reported to be shadowing the Philippine frigates involved in the exercise. While Brawner confirmed no direct confrontations occurred during the exercises, he noted that the presence of Chinese ships was anticipated. In response to the drills, the Chinese military asserted its commitment to safeguarding its territorial claims, emphasizing routine patrols within the South China Sea. The Southern Theater Command of China condemned the Philippines for inviting external military forces to undertake joint operations, labeling this action as a threat to regional peace and stability. China's Foreign Ministry reiterated a stance that disputes should be resolved directly between the countries involved without outside interference. The territorial tensions extend beyond maritime boundaries; India and China also share a longstanding land dispute in the Himalayas, historically exemplified by the brief but intense war in 1962. Moreover, China’s ambitious claims over the South China Sea have created friction with several Southeast Asian nations including Vietnam and Malaysia, all of which lay claim to parts of these strategic waters. The Philippines, eager to promote freedom of navigation and strengthen defense deterring China’s assertiveness, has actively engaged in naval exercises alongside its treaty ally, the United States, and other partners like Japan and Australia in the same maritime area. These joint maneuvers are not just military strategies but also send a clear message supporting the rules-based maritime order that is increasingly challenged by China. To underline its stance, the Philippines has allowed media access to observe territorial sea patrols, thereby highlighting China’s aggressive tactics, which have stirred up significant regional tensions. Recently, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense branded the Philippines as a ‘troublemaker,’ accusing it of colluding with foreign powers to exacerbate conflicts over what China considers its sovereign waters. Amidst these exchanges, General Brawner articulated the need for the Philippines to enhance its defense capabilities to deter potential conflicts, reinforcing the importance of military modernization and international partnerships, particularly with India. In a notable gesture of military diplomacy, Brawner emphasized that the recent port visit of the Indian navy tanker INS Shakti was not solely symbolic, but underscored a stronger alliance between the two nations, portraying unity and collaboration among democracies in the Indo-Pacific region. The relationship between India and the Philippines has grown increasingly significant, with shared interests in maritime security, regional stability, and adherence to international norms. This bond is expected to deepen further as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos embarks on a five-day state visit to India, searching to reinforce defense ties, trade engagements, and cooperation in sectors like agriculture and tourism. As China continues to assert its influence in the South China Sea, the strengthening military cooperation between India and the Philippines exemplifies a broader strategy among nations in the region to promote security and counterbalance Chinese assertiveness. The unfolding dynamics will be closely monitored as geopolitical relationships evolve within this highly sensitive region.

Read More at News →

Tags: India, Philippines, China, South china sea, Military exercises,