Archive · 28 Jan 2026
Philippines, US Conduct Joint Drill in Disputed South China Sea
The Philippines and the United States had a joint military exercise in the South China Sea, near a place called Scarborough Shoal.
This is an area that both the Philippines and China claim as their own.
The drill included ships and planes from both countries.
China said this exercise was not good for peace in the area.
The Philippines and the US did this to work better together and show their military skills.
China, which says most of the South China Sea belongs to it, criticized the drill and said it would protect its territory.
Philippines and US conducted joint military drill at Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.
This was the 11th such drill since November 2023, aimed at enhancing cooperation between the allies.
Philippine assets included a frigate, coast guard vessel, and military aircraft, while the US deployed a destroyer and a helicopter.
China criticized the drill, calling it a disruption to regional peace and stability.
China claims sovereignty over nearly all of the South China Sea, including areas within other countries' exclusive economic zones.
- Who
- Philippines and United States militaries, China
- What
- Joint military drill in disputed South China Sea waters
- When
- January 27, 2024
- Where
- Scarborough Shoal, South China Sea
- Why
- To enhance cooperation and tactical proficiency between allies, in response to China's growing presence
- Location
- Scarborough Shoal, South China Sea
- Participants
- Philippines, United States
- Date
- January 27, 2024
- Chinese Response
- Routine patrol, criticism of 'joint patrols'
- Philippine Assets
- Frigate Antonio Luna, Coast Guard vessel, 2 planes, 1 helicopter
- US Assets
- John Finn (destroyer), MH-60R Seahawk (helicopter)