The United States, Australia, and the Philippines conducted a joint military exercise in the South China Sea, which included sinking a decommissioned Philippine Navy ship. The exercise, which was observed by military officials and diplomats from several countries, was seen as a show of force against China's increasingly assertive actions in the region.
The exercise involved more than 16,000 military personnel from the United States and the Philippines, as well as a few hundred Australian troops and military observers from 14 countries. The drills included a variety of activities, such as live-fire exercises, amphibious landings, and air strikes.
The sinking of the ship was the culmination of the exercise. The ship was hit by a barrage of missiles and bombs before sinking beneath the waves. The exercise was seen as a clear message to China that the United States and its allies are prepared to defend their interests in the South China Sea.
China has repeatedly harassed Philippine ships in the South China Sea, using water cannons, lasers, and other dangerous maneuvers. The Philippines has accused China of setting off the hostilities by encroaching into its territorial waters. China has rejected these accusations and continues to claim sovereignty over the entire South China Sea.
The United States and its allies have repeatedly called on China to respect international law and to resolve its territorial disputes peacefully. The United States has also increased its military presence in the region in recent years, deploying more ships and aircraft to the South China Sea.
The sinking of the ship in the recent exercise is likely to further escalate tensions between the United States and China. China has already warned that the exercise could harm its security and territorial interests. The United States has said that it will continue to defend its interests in the South China Sea and to support its allies in the region.