Japan to Join US-Philippines Training Exercise in South China Sea
In response to China's growing naval presence in the South China Sea, Japan plans to participate in a joint training exercise with the United States and the Philippines this year. This decision comes amidst growing concerns about China's assertive actions in the region.
The proposed naval drill is expected to receive the backing of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, U.S. President Joe Biden, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during their first-ever trilateral summit in Washington on April 11th.
During the summit, the leaders are also expected to agree to upgrade trilateral security cooperation, similar to the existing cooperation between Japan, the United States, and South Korea.
As part of this enhanced cooperation, Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force will participate in the joint training exercise or patrol activity planned by the U.S. and Philippine militaries in the South China Sea.
This decision reflects the strengthening of security ties between Tokyo and Washington with Manila since Marcos, a strong advocate for close relations with the United States, took office in June 2022.
Last year, coast guards from the three countries conducted a joint training exercise, further solidifying their collaboration.
Furthermore, Japan plans to elevate the Philippines' status to "quasi-ally," similar to Britain and Australia. This move signifies the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.
In November 2022, during a meeting with Marcos in Manila, Kishida agreed to provide coastal surveillance radar equipment to the Philippine military under Japan's official security assistance program. This demonstrates Japan's commitment to supporting the Philippines' maritime security capabilities.