Manila: The Philippines and the United States launched their annual joint military exercises on Monday, focusing on defending against missile threats, repelling maritime invasions, and conducting a test involving the sinking of a decommissioned Philippine Navy vessel.

According to Qatar News Agency, the annual 'Balikatan' (shoulder-to-shoulder) exercises involve more than 14,000 Filipino and American troops and will extend until May 9. The drills will showcase a display of US weapons systems, including anti-ship missile systems and rocket launchers. Meanwhile, the Philippines will test its modern missile systems during live-fire exercises.

Last year marked the conclusion of one of the largest-ever joint military exercises between the US and the Philippines, which took place in the South China Sea. The exercise involved a barrage of missiles launched at a mock enemy warship.

US Lieutenant General James Glynn, serving as the lead exercise director from the US side, described this year's drills as full battle tests. He stated that the capabilities of both forces will be measured in multiple scenarios, emphasizing that these comprehensive combat tests aim to address all regional security challenges faced by the two nations.