Philippine, Indian Navies conduct first joint patrol in WPS next week

The Philippine Navy and Indian Navy are set to conduct their first joint maritime cooperative activity in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) next week, according to a statement from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday.

Indian naval tanker INS Shakti made a port call at Pier 15 in Manila, marking an enhancement of defense diplomacy between the two countries and coinciding with President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.'s first visit to India since becoming president from August 4 to 8.

General Romeo Brawner Jr., AFP chief, emphasized that this collaboration sends a strong signal of solidarity and cooperation between India and the Philippines as vibrant democracies committed to maritime security and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The joint patrol will take place near Scarborough Shoal, underscoring the growing partnership and mutual commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

India expects to sell short-range missiles worth over $200 million to the Philippines this year, following a previous deal for BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles in 2022.