US, Japan and Australia plan joint navy drills in disputed South China Sea, Philippine officials say

The United States, Japan, and Australia have organized joint naval exercises in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, near the western Philippines, for later this week. This action aims to highlight their united commitment to law and order in the region, following a recent act of aggression by China in those contested waters, according to Filipino security authorities on Sunday.

On August 5th, Chinese coast guard vessels utilized water cannons to intimidate Philippine ships in the area, an incident marking the continued tension that serves as a symbol of rivalry between China and the U.S. in the region.

The scheduled exercises include the coordinated sailing of three carriers, including aircraft and helicopters, in a powerful demonstration of unity. Following the offshore activities, commanders from the three countries are expected to meet with Philippine officials in Manila, as revealed to The Big Big News by two anonymous Philippine security officials, who were not authorized to discuss the details publicly.

The USS America, an American aircraft carrier, will be deployed for these drills, along with the JS Izumo, one of Japan’s largest helicopter carriers, and Australia’s HMAS Canberra, also equipped with helicopters. The plan for this joint exercise was set in motion a few months prior, one official noted.

Although logistical constraints will prevent the Philippines from participating in this week’s exercises, they remain open to involvement in future drills, according to the officials.

This collaboration between the U.S., Japan, and Australia comes in response to China’s aggressive actions earlier this month, and these countries were among those that quickly expressed support for the Philippines and concern over China’s behavior.

The incident involved six Chinese coast guard vessels and two militia ships blocking two Philippine navy-hired civilian boats supplying Philippine forces at the Second Thomas Shoal. The Chinese coast guard struck one supply boat with a powerful water cannon while the other successfully delivered necessary supplies. The Chinese coast guard defended its actions, stating that the water cannons were used professionally as a warning and that China would continue to protect its territorial rights.

On Saturday, the Philippine military announced plans to once again attempt to deliver supplies to its forces at the Second Thomas Shoal, emphasizing their determination to resist threats and their commitment to legal principles.

The incident prompted Washington to reiterate its commitment to defending its long-standing treaty ally, the Philippines, if its public vessels and forces were to be attacked, including in the South China Sea.

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• U.S. Department of Defense
• Japan’s Ministry of Defense
• Australian Department of Defence
• The South China Morning Post
• Reuters
• BBC News
• CNN International