WITH the mounting tensions between China and the Philippines after China fired a water cannon at the Philippine Coast Guard earlier this month.
Japan, Australia, and the United States said they plan to conduct the exercise on Wednesday at the South China Sea.
Following its port call on Friday in Manila, Japan maritime self-defense force has decided to send its largest destroyer, the Izumo.
Local reports say Izumo will become a de facto aircraft carrier after undergoing additional renovation next year or in 2025.
The Japanese vessel is also set to make a port call next Friday at Manila.
The Royal Australian Navy will deploy its amphibious assault ship the Canberra while the US Navy will send a similar ship called “America”.
The United States and its allies will be conducting joint exercises including aircraft takeoff and landing practices using the deck of the three ships.
On the other hand, the Philippine forces have ‘canceled its participation in the joint drill since the three other nations’ aircraft are too large to land on the decks of Philippine warships.
However, commanders from the four countries may gather in Manila to send a strong message.
The four countries have been considering conducting joint maritime patrols by their vessels in the sea along with the naval drill but the plan fails to get to fruition.
To recall, in June, the four countries held their first over defense ministerial meeting in Singapore wherein all participants agreed to strengthen security cooperation to promote the so-called free and open Indo-Pacific.
Meanwhile, China condemned the move, and expressed strong opposition against any attempt to change the status quo in the said Info-Pacific.
