US, Philippine forces start military drills amid tension over China's war games

15/10/2024 19:10

        The armed forces of the United States and Philippines began large-scale joint exercises with key allies on Tuesday that will take place in several areas
        in the Philippines, including those facing Taiwan and the South China Sea.
        
        The drills, running until Oct. 25, come after China conducted war games around Taiwan on Monday that drew condemnation from the Taipei and U.S. governments.
        
        The military exercises will involve more than 2,000 American troops and Filipino soldiers and personnel and include island-based exercises in amphibious landings, live fire and humanitarian assistance, the Philippine Marine Corps said.
        
        U.S. allies Australia, Britain, Japan and South Korea are joining the exercises, which are taking place while joint naval drills between the Philippines, Washington and four other countries off the coast of northern Luzon are underway.