Australia, Philippines, and U.S. Conduct Joint Maritime Activities in Disputed South China Sea
Australia, the Philippines, and the United States recently conducted a Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the South China Sea, specifically within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone, from August 19 to 25. This joint exercise involved naval and air assets from all three nations, including the Royal Australian Navy’s HMAS Supply, a Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon, the Philippine Navy frigate BRP Diego Silang, Philippine Air Force FA-50PH and A-29B aircraft, the Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Teresa Magbanua, and the United States Navy’s USS Santa Barbara and a USN P-8A Poseidon. The activity is seen as a countermeasure to China's recent drills and its claims over disputed waters, including near Huangyan Dao. Australia reiterated its stance that the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Award, which China rejects, is final and legally binding. 
