January 27, 2026
The Philippines’ armed forces stated that the militaries of the Philippines and the United States conducted a joint drill at a disputed shoal in the South China Sea. The military engagement aimed at increased coordination, tactical proficiency and mutual understanding between allied forces. The joint military action is the eleventh drill between the militaries of both countries in November 2023. The number of drills in the South China Sea has increased amid heightened tensions between the Philippines and China regarding territorial claims in the region.