US & Philippines Massively Increase Joint Military Training to Counter China Threat

By Johnny Franks, Warrior Editorial Fellow

The United States’ strategic positioning of military assets in the Philippines is crucial in the context of increasing geopolitical tensions with the People’s Republic of China. In recent years, the United States has developed plans to position ground-based intermediate-range missiles in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to enhance its deterrence against China. This move partly stems from the 2019 expiration of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, an important agreement that had restricted both the United States and Russia from developing and possessing such missiles. While the exact locations for these deployments remain undisclosed, defense analysts suggest Guam, a US territory, as a potential site. These missile units, possibly including land versions of the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) and the Tomahawk, are designed for quick redeployment to allied Asian nations in critical situations.

In the Philippines, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) has been expanded, emphasizing the country’s strategic importance to the United States. Four new locations for US military access have been identified: Camilo Osias Naval Base in Sta Ana, Lal-lo Airport in Cagayan Province, Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela Province, and the Island of Balabac near Palawan. These sites are crucial due to their proximity to Taiwan and the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, where China has built artificial islands with military capabilities. The EDCA expansion includes joint training, pre-positioning of equipment, and building infrastructure like airstrips, fuel storage, and military housing. Importantly, this arrangement does not imply a permanent US military presence but rather a framework for access.

Video Analysis – War to Defend Taiwan from Chinese Invasion

Such missile deployments represent a significant strategic shift in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the context of defending Taiwan against a potential invasion. The SM-6, known for its anti-aircraft and missile defense capabilities, offers a strong defense against air and missile attacks, crucial in scenarios involving Taiwan. The Tomahawk missile, noted for its precision striking ability and long range, provides an offensive edge, capable of targeting key enemy infrastructure and resources, potentially disrupting invasion plans. This strategic placement of missiles significantly strengthens deterrence against possible Chinese aggression, highlighting the US commitment to maintaining regional balance and protecting allies. However, the introduction of advanced weapons also raises concerns about escalating tensions and sparking an arms race in the area, illustrating the complexity of balancing defense needs with efforts to maintain regional stability.

The strategic placement of these assets and the enhancement of facilities under the EDCA highlight the Philippines’ increased role in the US strategy to counter Chinese influence and aggression in the region. The deployment of sophisticated military technology at these key bases significantly boosts the United States’ ability to monitor and respond to developments in the South China Sea and across the Indo-Pacific.

Johnny Franks holds an MA in U.S. Foreign Policy & National Security from American University and a BA in Diplomacy & World Affairs from Occidental College. With a specific interest in geopolitical security and military technology, Johnny has primarily focused his research and analysis on the Russia-Ukraine conflict from 2014 onwards. . As part of his MA coursework, Johnny contributed to developing an Arctic defense strategy in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense