The Philippines–France maritime drills in November 2025 mark a major boost to Indo-Pacific security, showcasing a new strategic partnership as both nations strengthen naval cooperation amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Conducted in the strategically vital Celebes Sea near eastern Mindanao, the exercises highlighted enhanced interoperability between the Philippine Navy and the French Navy, featuring joint maneuvers, maritime surveillance, air–sea integration, and coordinated patrols. France’s growing military presence—supported by its Indo-Pacific territories and permanent forces—signals stronger European involvement in defending freedom of navigation and countering gray-zone activities. For the Philippines, this partnership expands its defense network alongside the U.S., Japan, Australia, and India, reinforcing maritime domain awareness and supporting ongoing modernization efforts. As talks advance on a Philippines–France Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, these drills represent a rising regional coalition committed to protecting sovereignty, upholding international law, and securing a free and open Indo-Pacific.
IndoPacific Report
Will Philippines' NEW Alliance with France CHANGE The South China Sea?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXsK1...
The Philippines–France maritime drills in November 2025 mark a major boost to Indo-Pacific security, showcasing a new strategic partnership as both nations strengthen naval cooperation amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Conducted in the strategically vital Celebes Sea near eastern Mindanao, the exercises highlighted enhanced interoperability between the Philippine Navy and the French Navy, featuring joint maneuvers, maritime surveillance, air–sea integration, and coordinated patrols. France’s growing military presence—supported by its Indo-Pacific territories and permanent forces—signals stronger European involvement in defending freedom of navigation and countering gray-zone activities. For the Philippines, this partnership expands its defense network alongside the U.S., Japan, Australia, and India, reinforcing maritime domain awareness and supporting ongoing modernization efforts. As talks advance on a Philippines–France Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, these drills represent a rising regional coalition committed to protecting sovereignty, upholding international law, and securing a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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