Philippine-Australian Joint Exercises Showcase Close Cooperation Amid South China Sea Tensions
Philippine and Australian troops recently conducted joint exercises in the South China Sea, demonstrating strong cooperation between the two nations amidst tensions in the region. The exercises took place near the disputed waters, which are claimed by China, and were hailed as an extremely important example of strategic collaboration by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos.
China has been deploying numerous coast guard, navy, and other vessels to militarize and patrol reefs in the South China Sea, despite an international ruling that deems their claims as baseless. In 2012, China seized Scarborough Shoal, a vital fishing ground, from the Philippines after a tense standoff. The joint drills occurred at a naval base around 240 kilometers east of Scarborough Shoal.
President Marcos emphasized the significance of such exercises, especially considering the volatility of the region. He stated that it was crucial to prepare for any eventuality and that close strategic cooperation between countries was vital in this regard. President Marcos and Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles witnessed the drills together.
The joint exercises encompassed air, sea, and land drills, simulating the retaking of an enemy-controlled island. Approximately 1,200 Australian soldiers and 560 Filipino marines conducted the operation, arriving via amphibious assault vehicles, parachutes, and US Osprey aircraft. Two advanced Australian F-35 fighter jets provided close air support, while Australian warships secured the surrounding waters.
During a subsequent news conference, Minister Marles emphasized Australia’s commitment to a world governed by international law. He stated that bringing military capabilities to enhance the rules-based order was essential. According to Marles, the maintenance of peace relies on protecting this global order, which is currently under pressure.
Minister Marles and his Filipino counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro, issued a joint statement expressing their intention to plan bilateral joint patrols in the South China Sea and other areas of mutual interest. They also suggested that these expanded activities could potentially involve other countries dedicated to maintaining peace and security in the region.
These joint exercises come in the wake of a recent incident where Chinese coast guard vessels fired water cannon and obstructed a Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The Philippine Navy intentionally grounded a World War II-era vessel on the shoal in 1999 to counter China’s advancements in the area. Despite facing challenges from Chinese vessels, a second Philippine mission successfully delivered supplies to the outpost.
Moreover, the Philippines conducted a meeting this week with fellow members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China to negotiate a code of conduct in the South China Sea. This gathering aims to address the ongoing disputes and tensions in the region.
The joint exercises between the Philippines and Australia demonstrate their commitment to regional stability and cooperation amid the South China Sea tensions. By working together closely, these countries emphasize the importance of preparing for potential contingencies while upholding international law and a rules-based order.
