Indian and Philippine navies conduct joint patrols in South China Sea, challenging China's claims.

Indian and Philippine navies conducted their first joint patrols in the disputed South China Sea, a move likely to antagonize China. The two-day exercise involves three Indian vessels and follows a series of clashes in the area. China claims nearly the entire South China Sea, while the Philippines and India aim to promote freedom of navigation and strengthen deterrence against China. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos is set to embark on a state visit to India to discuss defense cooperation and other issues.