India and Philippines Flex Military Muscle in South China Sea

India and the Philippines have conducted unprecedented joint naval exercises in the contentious South China Sea, raising diplomatic tensions with China.

Gen. Romeo Brawner of the Philippines confirmed the successful completion of the two-day naval drills, expressing a desire for further military collaboration with India.

China, which claims vast sections of the South China Sea, criticized the joint exercises, accusing the Philippines of inviting external forces and threatening regional stability.

(With inputs from agencies.)