U.S. and Philippines Launch Largest Joint Military Exercise to Strengthen Regional Deterrence
The United States and the Philippines have initiated their largest joint military exercise, known as 'Balikatan,' which translates to 'shoulder-to-shoulder' in Tagalog. This exercise involves over 17,000 military personnel from both nations, along with participation from Japan, France, and Canada. The drills are designed to enhance deterrence and resilience against regional aggression, particularly in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. Marine Lt. Gen. Christian Wortman emphasized the U.S.'s unwavering commitment to the Indo-Pacific region despite other global challenges. The exercises include mock battle scenarios and live-fire maneuvers, with Japanese forces firing missiles to sink a mock enemy ship and U.S. forces deploying marine drones for bombardment. 
