In a significant milestone for bilateral defence cooperation, India and the Philippines concluded their first-ever joint naval exercise in the disputed South China Sea this week, marking a new chapter in strategic partnership between the two Indo-Pacific democracies.
The two-day maritime exercise, conducted near the contentious Scarborough Shoal, saw the participation of Indian Naval Ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan from the Eastern Fleet. The drill focused on joint manoeuvres and communication protocols designed to enhance operational readiness and build mutual trust between the naval forces.
The exercise coincides with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s state visit to New Delhi, his first official trip to India since assuming office in 2022. The timing underscores the growing importance both nations place on deepening their defence relationship amid evolving regional security dynamics.
"This exercise sends a powerful signal of solidarity and strength in partnership between two vibrant democracies in the Indo-Pacific," said General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The drill represents more than ceremonial cooperation – it demonstrates a shared commitment to maritime security in one of the world's most geopolitically sensitive regions.
Beijing responded predictably to the joint exercise, with China's Southern Theatre Command accusing the Philippines of "rallying an external force" to interfere in disputed waters. Chinese naval vessels, including a guided-missile destroyer, were reportedly spotted monitoring the exercise from approximately 25 nautical miles away.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its position that territorial disputes should be resolved by directly involved parties without third-party intervention. This reaction highlights the broader tensions in the South China Sea, where China's expansive territorial claims conflict with those of several Southeast Asian nations.
The naval exercise builds on an already strengthening defence relationship between India and the Philippines. Manila became the first foreign nation to acquire India's BrahMos missile system in 2024, with additional defence acquisitions under consideration, including the Indian-made Akash air defence system.
"We are ordering more equipment and weapon systems from India," General Brawner confirmed, citing the high quality and cost-effectiveness of Indian defence hardware compared to alternatives from other nations.
The joint exercise aligns with India's "Act East" policy and its vision for the Indo-Pacific region. As part of India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine, such partnerships demonstrate New Delhi's commitment to maintaining a free, open, and rules-based maritime order.
For the Philippines, the exercise represents part of a broader strategy to strengthen deterrence against Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea. Manila has previously conducted similar joint patrols with treaty ally the United States, as well as strategic partners including Japan, Australia, and France.
As President Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepare for bilateral talks, both sides are expected to sign several memorandums of understanding that will further deepen cooperation across defence, trade, and maritime security.
The successful completion of this inaugural naval exercise, despite Chinese objections, signals that both India and the Philippines are committed to maintaining their sovereign rights to conduct legitimate military cooperation in international waters. As regional tensions continue to simmer, such partnerships may prove crucial in maintaining stability and deterring conflict in the strategically vital South China Sea.
