<h1>US, Australia, Japan, and Philippines Conduct Naval Drills; China Objects, Citing South China Sea Claims</h1> A series of naval drills involving the United States, Australia, Japan, and the Philippines near the Philippines has led to complaints from China, which claims the entire South China Sea. The exercises aim to enhance defense interoperability and are conducted within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone. Additional drills with the U.S., Japan, and France are planned in the Philippines Sea. China accuses the Philippines of destabilizing the region by collaborating with foreign nations and conducting joint patrols. The South China Sea is a contested area with significant trade routes and potential natural resources, leading to ongoing regional tensions.