Australia-Philippines Military Ties Strengthen as Chinese Aggression Escalates in South China Sea

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles met with his Philippine counterpart in Manila to address rising tensions in the South China Sea. Against the backdrop of intensified Chinese coercion near Second Thomas Shoal—where coast guard and militia vessels maneuvered as close as 50 meters to Philippine positions—both nations launched “Alon,” their largest joint military exercise. With over 3,600 personnel, advanced destroyers, F/A‑18 fighter jets, and specialized weaponry deployed, the drills underscore growing regional cooperation and U.S. air surveillance monitoring.

Author: Global Ripple

Posted on: August 22, 2025