The United States and the Philippines have started the 39th edition of the Balikatan exercise, the largest military exercise between the two countries, with more than 16,000 troops participating. The exercise is taking place near the South China Sea and China-claimed Taiwan, amid tensions between the Philippines and China.
The Bottom Line Upfront
The Balikatan exercise is a significant show of military cooperation between the US and the Philippines, highlighting their shared commitment to their Mutual Defense Treaty obligations. It also comes at a time when the Philippines is pushing back against China's increasing presence in the South China Sea.
The Breakdown
The Balikatan exercise is being held in Palawan and Batanes, two Philippine provinces near South China Sea hotspots and Taiwan.
This year's exercise is the largest and most complex, involving exercises related to maritime operations, coastal defense, cyber training, and more.
The sinking of a decommissioned Chinese-made tanker, the BRP Lake Caliraya, is also part of the exercise.
The Balikatan exercise sends a strong message of military cooperation and support between the US and the Philippines, particularly in the face of China's assertiveness in the South China Sea. It also highlights the importance of the US-Philippines alliance in maintaining stability and security in the region.
