US begins Philippines war games in thick of Middle East conflict
The US and Philippines have begun annual military exercises with Japan and other allies, amidst rising tensions in the Middle East and the Taiwan Strait. The drills involve over 17,000 troops and will feature live-fire exercises in northern Philippines.
The US and Philippines have launched their annual Balikatan military exercises, with a significant contingent of 1,400 Japanese personnel participating for the first time. Over 17,000 troops from the US, Philippines, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Canada will take part in the 19-day drills. The exercises will feature live-fire drills in northern Philippines, near the Taiwan Strait, and in a province off the disputed South China Sea. The US will have the option to fire Tomahawk and NMESIS anti-ship missiles, and integrated air and missile defense systems will be tested. The drills coincide with rising tensions in the Middle East and the Taiwan Strait, with the Philippines concerned about being drawn into a potential conflict over Taiwan. The exercises demonstrate the commitment of the US and its allies to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
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