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15h ago

China Asserts Control Over Disputed South China Sea Reef as U.S.-Philippine Drills Intensify

Beijing claims sovereignty over Tiexian Reef while Manila and Washington conduct joint military exercises featuring advanced air and missile defense drills.

Philippines and China both claim the Sandy Clay reef in the South China Sea
Philippine and U.S. soldiers walk past a MADIS or Marine Air Defense Integrated System during the annual joint military exercises between the U.S. and Philippine troops called "Balikatan" or shoulder-to-shoulder, at a naval base in San Antonio, Zambales province, Philippines, April 27, 2025. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez
U.S. soldiers talk beside an Avenger Air Defense System during the annual joint military exercises between U.S. and Philippine troops called "Balikatan" or shoulder-to-shoulder, at a naval base in San Antonio, Zambales province, Philippines, April 27, 2025. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez
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Overview

  • China's coast guard stated it has enforced maritime control over Tiexian Reef, also known as Sandy Cay, near the Philippine military base on Thitu Island.
  • Chinese officials accused six Filipino personnel of illegally landing on the reef and said they were 'dealt with' in accordance with Chinese law.
  • The Philippines and the United States are conducting Balikatan joint military exercises, which include live-fire drills and integrated air and missile defense simulations for the first time.
  • U.S. and Philippine forces demonstrated advanced defense capabilities, shooting down drones with Stinger missiles and deploying the Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS).
  • China has condemned the drills as destabilizing and accused the Philippines of colluding with external powers, escalating diplomatic tensions over the disputed waters.