Philippines and Japan Conduct First Maritime Exercise Amid China’s Expansion
The Navy of the Philippines and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) conducted their first bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) on Friday in the West Philippines Sea. This exercise aimed to strengthen regional and international cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific, especially in light of China’s expansionist activities in the area.
Details of the Exercise
The maritime drill featured the Philippine Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal FF 150 and Japan’s JS Sazanami. The training included a communications exercise (COMMEX), a tactical maneuvering exercise, and a photographic exercise (PHOTOEX). According to a press statement from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the exercise enhanced the tactical capabilities of both navies and reinforced their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Commitment to Regional Stability
The AFP’s statement emphasized that both the JMSDF and the Philippine Navy are dedicated to promoting security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. This joint effort demonstrates their shared commitment to upholding a rules-based international order.
China’s Expansionist Activities
This maritime exercise comes at a crucial time as China continues its attempts to expand its territories in the Pacific Ocean. Taiwan has also faced similar issues, with its Ministry of National Defence (MND) recently detecting 66 Chinese military aircraft and vessels around the island. These activities are part of a Chinese military exercise in the Western Pacific, involving the aircraft carrier Shandong.
In July, 36 Chinese military aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, heading towards the Western Pacific for a joint air and sea military exercise. Earlier in May, Beijing sent 62 military aircraft and 27 naval vessels around Taiwan following the inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te. Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Koo stated that the MND had a ‘full grasp’ of the Shandong’s movements.
Doubts Revealed
Philippines -: The Philippines is a country in Southeast Asia made up of many islands. It is located in the western Pacific Ocean.
Japan -: Japan is an island country in East Asia, located in the northwest Pacific Ocean. It is known for its advanced technology and rich culture.
Maritime Exercise -: A maritime exercise is a practice activity done by navies to improve their skills and cooperation at sea. It includes activities like communication and maneuvering ships.
China’s Expansion -: China’s expansion refers to the country’s efforts to increase its control and influence over more areas, especially in the sea. This can sometimes cause problems with other countries.
West Philippines Sea -: The West Philippines Sea is the part of the South China Sea that is near the Philippines. It is important for fishing and shipping.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force -: The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force is Japan’s navy. It protects Japan’s waters and helps in international missions.
Indo-Pacific -: The Indo-Pacific is a large region that includes the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Many countries in Asia and around the world are part of this region.
Territorial Expansion -: Territorial expansion means a country is trying to take control of more land or sea areas. This can lead to conflicts with other countries.
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island near China. It has its own government, but China claims it as part of its territory.