The combat drills that took place in Itbayat, Batanes province in the Philippines involved U.S. Marines and Filipino counterparts darting out of Black Hawk helicopters near the strategic Bashi Channel, a flashpoint in the military rivalry between Washington and Beijing. These drills are part of the annual Balikatan exercises, which include over 16,000 American and Philippine military personnel. The goal of these exercises is to deter possible aggression, particularly in light of China’s assertive actions in the disputed South China Sea.
In addition to the U.S. and Philippine forces, there are also French and Australian forces participating in the drills, along with observers from Japan, European nations, and other allied countries. The exercises focus on improving inter-operability and response to emergencies in the Philippines. This year’s drills particularly emphasize territorial defense in sensitive areas like the South China Sea and the Bashi Channel.
The Bashi Channel, located between Taiwan and the Philippines, is closely monitored by Chinese and American forces due to its importance as a trade conduit. Chinese President Xi Jinping has made it clear that China will not tolerate separatist activities by Taiwan, while U.S. President Joe Biden has raised concerns about China’s actions in the South China Sea, especially in impeding the Philippines’ resupply efforts.
The decision to allow U.S. forces indefinite access to Philippine air force and naval bases near Batanes under a 2014 defense pact has been seen as a move to enhance the U.S. military’s ability to intervene in a Taiwan contingency more effectively. The Balikatan exercises have included live-fire drills in the South China Sea and joint naval sails by the U.S., France, and the Philippines.
Chinese authorities have criticized the exercises, warning that they could lead to confrontation and undermine regional stability. Despite the tensions, both U.S. and Philippine forces remain committed to practicing and enhancing their defense capabilities through joint exercises like Balikatan.