Philippines-US military exercises test readiness

The Philippines and the United States have launched extensive joint military exercises in the South China Sea, with Japan participating for the first time. The drills, which began on Monday, April 20, 2026, include maritime strike operations on a remote Philippine island near Taiwan. This expanded trilateral cooperation comes amid heightened regional tensions and China's increased military presence in the area. The exercises are designed to test readiness and enhance interoperability among the allied forces.