India and the Philippines staged joint sail and naval exercises in the disputed South China Sea for the first time, a high-profile military deployment that will likely antagonize China. Beijing has separate territorial disputes with the two Asian democracies and a long-running regional rivalry with New Delhi.

The first joint maritime drills conducted by the Philippines and India have triggered a rival exercise by China in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. speaks to the media during a press briefing at Western Command in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, August 10, 2023. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez/File Photo MANILA (Reuters) -The Philippine and Indian navies have sailed together for the first time in the South China Sea,