The United States has expanded its military presence in the Philippines by deploying fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets in the ongoing “Cope Thunder 252” joint exercise. Thousands of U.S. and Philippine troops are participating in the drill amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. In response, China has conducted a ballistic missile test in the Indo-Pacific region, signaling growing military assertiveness. The joint exercises underscore deepening U.S.-Philippine defense ties against the backdrop of regional disputes involving China and its neighbors.