India, Philippines Launch First Bilateral Maritime Patrols West Philippine Sea

The Philippines and India are launching their first-ever bilateral maritime patrol in the West Philippine Sea within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, marking a significant milestone in their defense cooperation. This joint patrol involves three Indian Navy warships—INS Mysore, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti—and coincides with Philippine President Marcos Jr.'s first visit to India since taking office, where he will discuss strengthening strategic ties with Indian leaders. The patrol aims to demonstrate both nations' commitment to protecting freedom of navigation and upholding international maritime law amid rising tensions in the contested South China Sea, particularly with China, which has deployed naval and coast guard vessels near Scarborough Shoal. India, equipped with advanced military assets such as the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles on INS Mysore, supports the Philippines in maritime security and regional stability, reflecting a growing strategic convergence between the two countries. The deployment aligns with India's MAHASAGAR vision for security and growth in the Indo-Pacific region and follows several previous naval visits and cooperative engagements between the Indian and Philippine navies. These developments underscore the expanding institutional maritime relations and a united front by Manila and New Delhi in face of China's increasing influence and territorial claims in the area.