Joint Maritime Exercise in the South China Sea
On April 7, 2023, a joint maritime exercise was conducted in the South China Sea by Japan, the United States, the Philippines, and Australia. This exercise coincided with a separate patrol by the Chinese military in the same region.
The participating vessels included the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer Akebono, the U.S. Navy littoral combat ship Mobile, and frigates from Australia and the Philippines. This large-scale exercise, described as the first of its kind, aimed to counter China's growing assertiveness in the strategic waterway.
The exercise took place within the Philippine exclusive economic zone and included communication drills, a passage near the Ayungin Shoal, and planned anti-submarine warfare training. The Ayungin Shoal has been a site of tension, with Chinese vessels accused of harassing Filipino ships.
In a joint statement, the four participating countries emphasized their commitment to freedom of navigation and overflight, and respect for maritime rights under international law. This statement is seen as a response to China's land reclamation and militarization activities in the Spratly Islands.
The exercise concluded successfully on April 8, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed hope that the exercise would contribute to deterring conflict with China.
Meanwhile, China conducted its own joint air and sea patrol in the South China Sea on April 7. The Chinese Southern Theater Command stated that the patrol was a response to military activities disrupting regional stability and creating conflict.
The Philippines, with limited naval resources, views defense cooperation with the United States and its allies as crucial in countering China's growing influence. The first-ever Japan-U.S.-Philippines trilateral summit is scheduled to take place in Washington on April 11, further solidifying this strategic partnership.