US and Philippines Stage Air Power Drills Amid China Tensions [Video]

The U.S. and the Philippines on Tuesday showcased their air power over the Western Pacific Ocean amid persistent tensions with China.

The countries, which have a mutual defense treaty, each provided jets for a training mission over the Philippine Sea, east of the Southeast Asian country, the U.S. Air Force said.

The drill increased proficiency and readiness to ensure the Indo-Pacific region remained free and open, the U.S. Air Force added, while demonstrating the interoperability of the alliance’s air forces.

Newsweek has reached out to the Philippine military for comment.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated on November 18 that any defense and security cooperation between Manila and Washington should not target or harm the …