Philippines and U.S. Stage Counter-Landing Drills With Allies Near South China Sea

Troops from New Zealand, Philippines, U.S., and Australia pose for a photo with their national flags after participating in counter-landing live fire exercises during Balikatan, the annual joint military exercises between the U.S. and the Philippines, at Long Point Beach, Brgy. Aporawan, Aborlan, Palawan, Philippines, April 27, 2026. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez
Troops from New Zealand, Philippines, U.S., and Australia pose for a photo with their national flags after participating in counter-landing live fire exercises during Balikatan, the annual joint military exercises between the U.S. and the Philippines, at Long Point Beach, Brgy. Aporawan, Aborlan, Palawan, Philippines, April 27, 2026. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez

By Adrian Portugal

As simulated enemy boats and unmanned craft closed in on the shores of Palawan Island facing the South China Sea, Philippines and U.S. forces conducted counter-landing drills on Monday, repelling a mock assault by using live fire against designated targets and intercepting threats.

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