China Criticizes US-Philippines Balikatan Military Drills

The United States and the Philippines have commenced their largest-ever annual joint military exercise, 'Balikatan,' involving about 17,000 troops and featuring advanced weaponry such as the NMESIS anti-ship missile system. The drills, running until May 9, 2025, include full-scale battle simulations and advanced air and missile defense exercises near Taiwan and the South China Sea. US and Philippine officials state the exercises aim to strengthen defense ties and regional cooperation, with Australia participating and Japan attending as an observer. China has sharply criticized the drills, calling them provocations that threaten regional stability and infringe on its sovereignty over Taiwan and the South China Sea. The Philippines has expanded defense cooperation with the US amid maritime confrontations with China, and discussions for potential arms deals, including F-16 fighter jets, are ongoing. China has warned the military collaboration could spur an arms race and urged restraint to avoid further escalation.