U.S., French navies hold drills in Western Pacific amid growing regional tensions

The U.S. and French navies conducted "free navigation" exercises in the Indo-Pacific Region on Tuesday. The drills came against the backdrop of growing tensions between China and the Philippines.

The 7th Fleet, stationed in Japan, noted ongoing efforts to "advance our interoperability with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific," The Epoch Times reported.

The American and French fleets "engaged in formation sailing, communication exercises, and simulated refueling at sea." Thirteen ships participated in the exercises.

"The work we do together strengthens the combined capabilities of our professional maritime forces and enhances our ability to deter conflict in the region," Vice Adm. Fred Kacher, commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, said.

The drills came during growing China–Philippines tensions.

On Tuesday, the Philippines made a formal diplomatic protest after an August 8 aerial confrontation with China.

The Philippines claimed a Chinese jet came dangerously close to a Philippine Air Force patrol plane, launching flares in its path over disputed waters.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called China's actions “unjustified, illegal, and reckless.”

China’s foreign ministry fired back, accusing the Philippine plane of “infringement activities and provocation.”