US And Philippine Troops Begin Balikatan War Games Exercise In West Philippine Sea

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - APRIL 21: US marines amphibious assualt vehicles take part in manoeuvres during the Balikatan war games exercise in San Antonio town on April 21, 2015 in Zambales province, Philippines. Balikatan which means 'shoulder to shoulder' is a joint military exercise meant to increase the interoperability effectiveness of US and Philippine troops. This year's war games exercise will be held for a two-week period in various parts of the Philippines and involves around 10,000 US and Philippine troops in coastal areas in the South China Sea where the Spratlys group of island are located. (Photo by Dondi Tawatao/Getty Images)