Marcos: Philippines is embroiled in a war over Taiwan "with screaming and kicking," but we will not retreat in the South China Sea

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a harsh statement on Monday, warning that his country would inevitably be drawn into a military conflict over Taiwan, even if it "resisted with screams and kicks." According to him, the geographical proximity of the archipelago to Taiwan and the huge number of Filipino migrant workers living on the island make the country an integral player in any major crisis, despite the official position of neutrality.

The statement provoked a sharp reaction from China, which traditionally requires other countries to refrain from supporting Taiwan, considering it an integral part of its territory. Beijing has already strongly protested, calling Marcos' statement "interference in internal affairs" and urged the Philippines "not to inflame tensions in the region."

However, Marcos did not stop there. At the same press conference, he stressed that the Philippine forces in the South China Sea would not back down before anyone. "Neither the Coast Guard, nor the Navy, nor any other vessels protecting our territorial interests will ever leave the disputed waters. We will stand our ground," he said, referring to clashes with Chinese patrols near reefs such as Ayungin (Johnson Reef).

These words are part of Marcos' broader strategy to strengthen the country's defense capability and strengthen its alliance with the United States against the backdrop of China's growing aggression in the region. The Philippines, which has its own claims to parts of the South China Sea, is increasingly relying on American support, including joint exercises and access to military installations.

Thus, Marcos sends a double signal: to Beijing — that Manila will not remain silent, and to Washington — that the Philippines is ready to be the front line in the struggle for stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The United States is deploying F-35s in the Philippines amid China's increased military presence in the Indo-Pacific region

After the deployment of the Typhon missile system, the United States began the first deployment of the F-35 in the Philippines

The Philippines is rapidly becoming a state on the front line of U.S.-China rivalry in the Indo—Pacific region, with Washington deploying its latest weapons systems in the country, which is part of the first island chain - strategic archipelagos in East Asia, including Taiwan, Japan and the Philippines.

Just a few days after the nuclear-powered American aircraft carrier George Washington arrived in the Philippine capital for a visit, the United States sent one of its most advanced fighter jets to this country for the first time. — F-35.

This move reflects the growing convergence of strategic interests between the United States, which seeks to protect its allies in the Indo-Pacific region, and the Philippines, which is increasingly becoming the target of China's aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.

A fifth-generation stealth aircraft has arrived at Clark Air Force Base to participate in the Cope Thunder 25-2 joint aviation exercise. The exercises began on July 7 and will last until July 18.

More than 2,500 people are participating in the exercise, including 2301 from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and 225 from the US Pacific Air Forces. The Philippine Air Force also deployed several types of aircraft, including FA-50 fighter jets, A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, and AW109, S-76A, and S-70i Black Hawk helicopters.

The US is building a maintenance center for surface vessels in the Philippines to enhance surveillance of China

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced plans to build a new maintenance and repair center at the Oyster Bay Naval Detachment on Palawan Island, Philippines. This center will serve both manned and unmanned surface vessels used by the Philippine Armed Forces to monitor Chinese vessel activity in the region.

The project provides for the creation of an infrastructure capable of servicing vessels up to 11.6 meters (38 ft) long, equipped with electrical, air conditioning and auxiliary systems that meet the technical requirements of these platforms. The Center will play a key role in maintaining the combat capability and operational readiness of Philippine surface vessels, which is especially important against the backdrop of growing tensions in the South China Sea.

The construction of such a facility reflects U.S. efforts to strengthen naval cooperation with the Philippines and enhance regional control and security capabilities. The maintenance center will significantly reduce the repair and maintenance time of ships, ensuring their constant readiness to perform patrol and reconnaissance tasks.

The US conducted a simulated military operation with anti-ship weapons in the Philippines amid China's buildup in disputed waters

During the annual Balikatan 2025 joint military exercises taking place in the Philippines from April 21 to June 6, the United States demonstrated for the first time the use of the advanced NMESIS (Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System) anti-ship system. This system includes land-based launchers with Naval Strike Missile anti-ship missiles mounted on unmanned light tactical vehicles capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 180 kilometers.

The exercises, which involve more than 4,000 troops from the United States and the Philippines, as well as representatives from Australia, Japan and South Korea, cover a wide range of scenarios, from traditional combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. For the first time, NMESIS is being used in live firing exercises, which significantly increases combat readiness and modernizes the defense capabilities of the Philippines.

At the same time, China continues to expand its naval presence in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, including building artificial islands and conducting combat patrols near disputed reefs and atolls such as Scarborough. These actions are causing concern to neighboring countries and the international community, given the strategic importance of the region and the tension around maritime borders.

The US demonstration of new anti-ship weapons capabilities in the Philippines serves as a signal of Washington's readiness to support its allies and restrain China's expansionist ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Australian and Philippine defense ministers criticize China's military buildup at Asian Summit in Singapore

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles called on China to explain the reasons for "such an extraordinary military buildup," saying Beijing needed to ensure greater transparency and provide appropriate assurances. According to him, this is a "fundamental issue" for security and stability in the region. Marles stressed that the growth of China's military potential is the most significant since the end of World War II, but it raises concerns due to the lack of clear strategic intent and transparency.

At the same time, Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. described China's actions in the South China Sea as "absolutely irresponsible and reckless." He noted that the Philippines will defend its national interests and will not allow aggression in disputed waters, despite pressure from Beijing.

Both ministers spoke to reporters separately on the sidelines of the Asian Defense Summit Shangri-La Dialogue, held in Singapore. China sent a low-level delegation to the summit this year and canceled a planned speech, allowing Western and regional countries to more openly criticize Beijing's policies.

Chinese aircraft carrier CNS Liaoning spotted off the coast of Taiwan and the Philippines

Satellite image

Satellite images show the passage of the Chinese aircraft carrier CNS Liaoning in the waters of the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of the Philippines and Taiwan, key allies and partners of the United States in the region. Taiwan's Ministry of Defense has confirmed to local media that the aircraft carrier is located off the southeast coast of the island.

This relocation of the Chinese aircraft carrier is causing concern in the region, given the tensions between China and Taiwan, as well as the strategic importance of the Philippines as a partner of the United States. CNS Liaoning is China's first aircraft carrier to actively participate in demonstrating naval power and conducting exercises near disputed territories.

The presence of an aircraft carrier in the area indicates China's continued activity in expanding its influence in the South China and East China Seas. It also serves as a signal to the US allies about the need to maintain a high level of readiness and cooperation in the field of security.

In response to China's actions, Taiwan and the Philippines are strengthening their measures to monitor and secure their maritime borders, while the United States continues to support its regional partners as part of a deterrence strategy.

The American NMESIS system in the Philippines: strengthening deterrent capabilities in the region

 

The US Navy's Naval Anti-ship Missile Interdiction System (NMESIS) has arrived in the Philippines, underscoring Washington's desire to strengthen the allies' defense capabilities amid growing tensions in the region. Experts describe the current situation as a period of "security anxiety," and the deployment of this advanced system could be an important step towards strengthening regional stability.

What is NMESIS?

NMESIS is a mobile coastal anti—ship system that uses Naval Strike Missile (NSM) missiles to engage targets at sea. It was designed for rapid deployment in remote areas and is capable of effectively threatening even the most modern enemy ships. The system is mounted on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) chassis, making it highly mobile and ready for action in any environment.

Role in Balikatan teachings

Brigadier General Michael Logico, head of the annual Balikatan joint exercises, said on Tuesday that NMESIS will be actively used as part of these maneuvers, which will take place from April 21 to May 9. The Balikatan exercises conducted between the Philippines and the United States are one of the key elements of the two countries' defense cooperation. The presence of NMESIS demonstrates the willingness of the parties to work out complex scenarios for countering maritime threats.

Why is this important?

The NMESIS deployment in the Philippines is of strategic importance. Given China's growing influence in the South China Sea and its aggressive actions in disputed areas, such a system can become an important deterrent tool. Its mobility and accuracy make it possible to effectively protect the sea borders and ensure the security of allies in the region.

A period of security anxiety

The current situation in the Asia-Pacific region raises serious concerns. The Philippines, as a key U.S. ally, is facing pressure from China, especially in the South China Sea. The deployment of NMESIS on the territory of the country symbolizes Washington's support and readiness to jointly repel threats.

Prospects for cooperation

NMESIS' participation in the Balikatan exercises will be an important milestone for the Philippines and the United States. This will not only strengthen their defense ties, but also allow them to work together in the face of real threats. In addition, the use of such a system can become an example for other countries in the region that seek to protect their maritime borders.

The global presence of the US Armed Forces: strategy, priorities, and base allocation

 

On the map: all known US military bases abroad

The United States has traditionally remained one of the world's leading military powers, with a global presence covering virtually all key regions of the planet. A quick glance at the map of the distribution of American military bases highlights two main geopolitical directions: Europe and East Asia. These regions are not only of strategic importance for ensuring the security of the United States, but also are the most important points of influence in international politics.

Europe: historical focus and modern adaptation

Europe has traditionally occupied one of the central places in the strategy of the US military deployment. Despite the fact that Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom do not have the same number of large bases as Japan, the combined presence of American troops in Europe remains significant. Since the outbreak of hostilities in Ukraine, the number of American soldiers in the region has increased by about 80,000, which demonstrates the willingness of the United States to strengthen its position depending on the current situation.

It is especially important to note that Europe is a region where the United States actively cooperates with NATO, which makes it possible to effectively coordinate actions with its allies. This cooperation includes not only the deployment of military bases, but also joint exercises, modernization of defensive systems and provision of logistical support.

East Asia: a key hub of global security

East Asia remains the second most important region for the United States. Here, the most noticeable presence of American troops is observed in Japan, which has 14 military bases — more than any other country. Other significant partners include the Philippines (9 bases) and South Korea (8 bases). These countries play a key role in ensuring stability in the region, especially in the face of China's growing influence.

Japan, in particular, has the largest number of American troops among all countries, amounting to about 53,000 people. This is no coincidence, as the country is located in a strategically important location that allows it to control the sea routes connecting the Asia-Pacific region with the rest of the world. In addition, the presence of large air bases and ports makes Japan an ideal platform for rapid response to crisis situations.

Global Database Network: facts and figures

According to official data, the United States has at least 128 military bases in 49 countries around the world. This massive list includes both large facilities capable of hosting entire divisions, as well as small strongholds providing intelligence, support, or interception of threats. Here are a few key points:

Leaders in the number of bases:

- Japan (14 bases)

- Philippines (9 bases)

- South Korea (8 bases)  

Strategic points:

- East Asia: control of sea lanes and airspace.  

  - Europe: supporting NATO allies and countering potential threats.  

  - The Middle East: ensuring access to energy resources and stability of the region.  

Distribution by region:

- Asia-Pacific region: the largest number of bases and troops.  

  - Europe: strengthening its position after the events in Ukraine.  

  - The Middle East: maintaining influence in a difficult political environment.  

The importance of the US global presence

The presence of American military bases around the world performs several functions:

1. Providing rapid response: Bases located in various regions allow the United States to quickly deploy forces in the event of a conflict.  

2. Maintaining international order: The military presence helps to prevent aggression and stabilize regions where potential hotbeds of tension exist.  

3. Strengthening allied relations: The joint use of bases with partners helps to build trust and increase the level of interaction.  

4. Control over key resources: Many bases are located near important trade routes, which allows the United States to influence the global economy.

Challenges and criticism

Despite the obvious advantages of a global presence, it also raises a number of criticisms. For example:

- Economic burden: Maintaining a huge network of bases requires significant financial costs, which can put pressure on the country's budget.  

- Political tensions: The presence of American bases in some countries causes discontent among the local population or neighboring states, which sometimes leads to protests or diplomatic disputes.  

- Risk of escalation of conflicts: The presence of the United States near potentially hostile states can be perceived as a threat, contributing to tension.

The global presence of the US armed forces, represented by a network of 128 bases in 49 countries, is an essential element of their foreign policy and security strategy. Europe and East Asia remain the two main priorities where the United States focuses its efforts to ensure stability and protect its interests. However, the effectiveness of this strategy depends on many factors, including economic opportunities, political support from allies, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. Only an integrated approach will allow the United States to maintain its leadership in the world and continue to play a key role in ensuring international security.