In a significant move regarding maritime security, the Indian Navy has begun patrolling the South China Sea alongside Philippine naval forces for the first time. This joint operation comes at a tense time, as China continues to assert extensive territorial claims over the region, which overlaps with the maritime zones of multiple Southeast Asian nations.
Details of the Joint Patrol
The two-day naval patrol, which began on 3 August 2024, features three Indian vessels, including the guided missile destroyer INS Delhi. According to the Philippines’ military officials, the operation is designed to enhance cooperation between the two nations.
- Participants: Indian Navy and Philippine Navy vessels.
- Duration: 3 – 4 August 2024.
- Location: Disputed areas of the South China Sea.
Context of the Patrol
This joint activity coincides with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos’s state visit to New Delhi, where he aims to strengthen ties with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Notably, Marcos has previously highlighted the importance of upholding international maritime law in the face of regional challenges.
Both nations have been wary of increasing Chinese influence in the waters, with the Philippines bolstering its defence cooperation with various allies over the past year. Recent incidents have driven concerns regarding China’s expanding reach and its claims that the South China Sea is largely under its jurisdiction.
International Reactions
The patrol has drawn attention from Beijing, which labelled it as a disruption to regional peace. A spokesperson for China’s Southern Theatre Command described their recent routine patrols in the region and cautioned against what they described as “so-called joint patrols.”
This situation highlights the growing complexity of regional security dynamics, as countries navigate their interests amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. The stakes are further underscored by the Philippines’ previous acquisition of military technology from India, notably the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
As the situation develops, all eyes are likely to remain on further collaborations and agreements arising from President Marcos’s visit to India, particularly regarding defence and maritime security.