India and the Philippines have staged joint naval exercises in the disputed South China Sea for the first time, antagonizing China.

The Philippine and Indian navies have sailed together for the first time in the South China Sea, officials said on Monday, as President Ferdinand Marcos left Manila for New Delhi for a state visit. The Philippines has conducted "maritime cooperative activities" with foreign navies since late 2023 as part of its push to counter China's expansive claims in the waterway,

Marcos’ ‘landmark’ visit reflects the countries’ growing convergence on defence and economic interests, analysts say.

India and the Philippines announced an upgraded strategic partnership Tuesday that they said will deepen trade, defense and maritime cooperation between the two nations. The countries announced the agreement after bilateral talks in New Delhi between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos.

President Bongbong Marcos officially announces the Philippines' strategic partnership with India, marking it as the country's fifth official strategic ally.