United Front: Maritime Drills in South China Sea to Uphold Rule of Law

The U.S., Australia, Canada, and the Philippines conducted joint air and naval exercises in the South China Sea to promote the rule of law and freedom of navigation. This led to a response from China conducting its own military patrols. The exercises reflect international efforts to address maritime challenges and support a rules-based order.

The United States, Australia, Canada, and the Philippines showcased a united front Wednesday by conducting joint air and naval exercises in the South China Sea. The military manoeuvres aimed to promote the rule of law and ensure freedom of navigation in the disputed waters.

In an apparent reaction, China conducted its own air and sea combat patrols the same day. Adm. Samuel Paparo of the US Indo-Pacific Command, along with top military and defense commanders from Australia, Canada, and the Philippines, emphasized their joint commitment to upholding international law and the rules-based order.

The exercises, which included anti-submarine warfare drills and communications checks, come amidst longstanding tensions as China asserts territorial claims over the South China Sea, challenging smaller coastal nations and disrupting regional peace. The participating nations reaffirmed their stand, referencing a 2016 international arbitration ruling that invalidated China's expansive claims.

(With inputs from agencies.)