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U.S., Philippines kick off one of their largest combat drills as allies join, despite Iran-focused Washington
The United States and the Philippines opened one of their largest combat exercises on April 20, 2026, as part of an annual display of allied military power. This year's drills expand to include Japan, France and Canada under visiting forces agreements, according to the Philippine military.
Why It Matters
The exercise signals expanding multinational participation in Asia's security architecture and underscores deterrence messaging at a time of broader regional tensions, even as Washington prioritizes other conflicts.
Timeline
1 Event
U.S., Philippines kick off major combat drills with expanded international participation
April 20, 2026
The United States and the Philippines began one of their largest combat exercises on Monday, April 20, 2026, in the Philippines, as part of an annual display of allied military might aimed at deterring aggression in Asia, despite Washington's preoccupation with the war in West Asia. The drills will expand this year to include other militaries, including Japan, France and Canada, which have signed visiting forces agreements with Manila, according to the Philippine military.