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U.S., Japan, and Philippines Conduct Strategic Missile Drills in Luzon Strait

U.S., Japan, and Philippines Conduct Strategic Missile Drills in Luzon Strait

The U.S., Japan, and the Philippines conducted joint maritime strike drills in the Luzon Strait, a critical military corridor between Taiwan and the Philippines. The exercises involved live-fire drills using U.S. Army M30/31 Guided Multiple-Launch Rocket Systems, Japanese Type 88 anti-ship missiles, and Philippine Navy frigates firing C-Star missiles. These drills are part of the broader Balikatan exercise, highlighting the strategic importance of the Luzon Strait for global shipping routes and military movements, particularly for China's naval forces. The drills aimed to demonstrate the capability to control this vital passage, which is crucial for the movement of military assets in the region.

Missiles Strike Target Ship in Strategic Luzon Strait Amid Rising Indo-Pacific Tensions

Missiles Strike Target Ship in Strategic Luzon Strait Amid Rising Indo-Pacific Tensions

A former Philippine Navy warship was sunk during a live-fire exercise in the Luzon Strait, involving Japanese, Philippine, and U.S. forces. The exercise, part of the Balikatan series, featured a variety of anti-ship missiles and rocket artillery, highlighting the strategic importance of the Luzon Strait. This waterway is a vital shipping route and military corridor, particularly for China's naval forces. The drills included the use of U.S. Army Tomahawk cruise missiles and Japanese Type 88 anti-ship missiles, marking a significant military collaboration in the region.

Japan Conducts Missile Drill in Philippines Amid Regional Tensions

Japan Conducts Missile Drill in Philippines Amid Regional Tensions

Japanese troops have successfully launched two Type 88 anti-ship missiles during Exercise Balikatan 2026 in the Philippines. The live missile firing took place on May 6 from the Culili Point sand dunes in northwestern Luzon, targeting a decommissioned ship 75km away in the South China Sea. This exercise marks the first time Japanese combat troops have actively participated in Balikatan, which traditionally involved Australia, the Philippines, and the USA. The event is part of a broader military exercise involving approximately 17,000 troops from seven countries, including first-time participants Canada, France, and New Zealand. The exercise aims to enhance military cooperation and readiness in the region, particularly in response to potential conflicts involving Taiwan.

Philippine Coast Guard Accuses China of Illegal Marine Research in South China Sea

Philippine Coast Guard Accuses China of Illegal Marine Research in South China Sea

The Philippine Coast Guard has accused China of conducting unauthorized marine scientific research near the Reed Bank, a region rich in oil and gas within Manila's exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea. According to a statement, the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 33 was spotted near Iroquois Reef, deploying a service boat, which the Philippines claims is part of illegal research activities. The incident also involved a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and 13 Chinese maritime militia ships. The Philippines asserts that these actions violate its sovereign rights and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. In response, the China Coast Guard accused the Philippines of harassment and claimed the research was a legitimate ecological survey.

Taiwan Conducts First Torpedo Test for Domestic Submarine, Enhancing Defense Capabilities

Taiwan Conducts First Torpedo Test for Domestic Submarine, Enhancing Defense Capabilities

Taiwan has successfully conducted the first torpedo firing test of its domestically-developed submarine, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to modernize its military capabilities. This development is part of Taiwan's broader strategy to strengthen its defense systems amid increasing military exercises by China, which claims Taiwan as its territory. The submarine program, which has received technological and expertise support from the United States and Britain, aims to deploy two submarines by 2027. The first submarine, costing approximately $1.57 billion, is equipped with a Lockheed Martin Corp combat system and U.S. Mark 48 torpedoes. The recent test was conducted to verify the operational capabilities of the submarine's combat system, including detection, tracking, and firing control.

Japan Conducts Type 88 Anti-Ship Missile Test in Philippine Exercise

Japan Conducts Type 88 Anti-Ship Missile Test in Philippine Exercise

Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force successfully fired two Type 88 anti-ship missiles during Exercise Balikatan 2026 in the Philippines. The missiles were launched from a 6x6 launcher vehicle and hit a decommissioned ship target 75km away in the South China Sea. This exercise marks the first time Japanese combat troops have actively participated in Balikatan, which involves multiple countries, including the U.S., Australia, and the Philippines. The exercise aims to enhance military interoperability and strengthen defense capabilities in the region. Japan's participation is facilitated by a reciprocal access agreement with the Philippines, allowing for joint military activities.

US concerned by Taiwan defence delay 'concession' to China

US concerned by Taiwan defence delay 'concession' to China

TAIPEI, May 9 (Reuters) - Further delays to Taiwan military spending are a "concession" to China, the U.S. State Department said, as Taipei's defence ministry detailed the impact of projects excluded from a package passed by the opposition-controlled parliament.

China Emphasizes Taiwan as Priority Ahead of President Trump-Xi Meeting

China Emphasizes Taiwan as Priority Ahead of President Trump-Xi Meeting

China has reiterated its stance on Taiwan as a priority issue ahead of an upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Chinese government has emphasized the importance of the 'one China principle' as a foundation for stable U.S.-China relations. This comes amid increased military activity by China around Taiwan, which it considers a part of its territory. The U.S., a key ally of Taiwan, has been urged by China to adhere to previous commitments regarding the island. The meeting between the two leaders is expected to address these tensions, alongside other bilateral issues.

Japan fires missile in joint drill with US and allies in northern Philippines, facing South China Sea

Japan fires missile in joint drill with US and allies in northern Philippines, facing South China Sea

MANILA, May 6 (Reuters) - Japan's Self-Defense Forces fired a Type 88 anti‑ship missile during a joint maritime exercise with U.S., Australian, and Philippine forces on Wednesday, hitting a decommissioned Philippine Navy ship in waters facing the disputed South China Sea.

China may try 'manoeuvring' over Taiwan issue at Trump meeting, official says

China may try 'manoeuvring' over Taiwan issue at Trump meeting, official says

TAIPEI, May 7 (Reuters) - China may try some "manoeuvring" over the Taiwan issue when U.S. President Donald Trump visits Beijing next week, but the U.S. has reaffirmed its policy on the island has not changed, a top Taiwanese intelligence official said on Thursday.

Paraguay president lauds friendship with Taiwan, China tells him to sever ties

Paraguay president lauds friendship with Taiwan, China tells him to sever ties

By Ben Blanchard and Yi-Chin Lee TAIPEI, May 7 (Reuters) - Paraguay and Taiwan share a friendship based on freedom and democracy that extends beyond diplomatic formalities, Paraguayan President Santiago Pena said on Thursday, as China told him to sever ties with Taipei.

US fires on Iranian oil tanker as Trump pressures Tehran for deal to end war

US fires on Iranian oil tanker as Trump pressures Tehran for deal to end war

The U.S. military says it has fired on an Iranian oil tanker as President Donald Trump seeks to pressure Tehran into reaching a deal to end the war