US Prepared for South China Sea Tensions, Says Admiral Paparo

US Indo-Pacific Command chief Adm Samuel Paparo has said that American forces are ready with a range of options to counter increasing acts of aggression in the South China Sea. These plans will be executed in consultation with the Philippines, a key treaty ally. However, specifics on the potential measures remain undisclosed to prevent adversaries from preparing countermeasures.

American forces are prepared with a variety of strategies to address rising aggression in the South China Sea, according to Adm Samuel Paparo, chief of the US Indo-Pacific Command. However, these steps will only be implemented in concert with the Philippines, a key treaty ally, and the details of these strategies remain classified.

Paparo stated that openly discussing these tactics could provide adversaries with the means to develop countermeasures. The admiral made these comments during a joint press conference with Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen Romero Brawner Jr following their annual security talks in Baguio City.

During the conference, Paparo reiterated that the US could potentially escort Philippine vessels in the contentious waters, a move that might bring American naval ships into direct conflict with Chinese forces. Brawner noted that the Philippines could still manage the situation independently, but might seek US assistance if Filipino forces are severely threatened.

(With inputs from agencies.)