On Friday, the navies of the Philippines and Japan held their first joint Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the West Philippine Sea. This exercise was designed to bolster regional and international cooperation in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, especially in light of China’s ongoing expansionist efforts in the area.
The exercise featured two naval vessels: the Philippine Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal FF 150 and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s (JMSDF) JS Sazanami. The training included several activities such as a communications exercise (COMMEX), a tactical maneuvering exercise, and a photographic exercise (PHOTOEX). These activities aimed to improve the operational capabilities of both navies and to strengthen their partnership.
According to a press release from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the maritime drill helped enhance the tactical skills of the participating forces and reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and stability.
The AFP noted that the exercise showcased both countries’ dedication to upholding a rules-based international order and promoting security in the Indo-Pacific region.
The timing of this exercise is significant, given the current tensions in the region. China has been actively pursuing territorial expansion in the Pacific, a situation also affecting Taiwan. Recently, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported the detection of 66 Chinese military aircraft and vessels near the island. These Chinese forces were reportedly heading to the Western Pacific for a joint military exercise with the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong.
The MND’s statement revealed that 56 of these aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, a critical boundary separating Taiwan from China. Some of these aircraft came within 33 nautical miles (61 kilometers) of Taiwan’s southern coast. The Ministry of National Defence is closely monitoring the situation and has taken appropriate measures in response.
This recent activity follows earlier incidents where Chinese military forces have approached Taiwan. On July 10, Taiwan reported 36 Chinese military aircraft crossing the median line, heading towards the Western Pacific for exercises. In May, China had sent 62 military aircraft and 27 naval vessels around Taiwan, coinciding with the inauguration of Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te.
Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Koo assured the public that the MND is fully aware of the movements of the Shandong and other Chinese military assets, emphasizing that the situation is under control and being monitored closely.
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