Asia's territorial disputes

Japan holds first test launch of Tomahawk missile from warship

Japan is ordering US$2.35 billion (S$3 billion) worth of Tomahawk missiles from the US to boost its long-range strike capabilities.

Philippines files protest over ‘racist’ China video portraying Filipinos as monkeys

The video was posted on July 10, coinciding with Philippine events marking the 10th anniversary of a ruling that invalidated China’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea.

Philippine Coast Guard condemns ‘racism’ in Chinese maritime dispute video

A ship identified by the Philippine Coast Guard as a Chinese research vessel is seen towing a floating structure.

Asian Insider

Who was here first? Why maps, old compasses and history classes matter in South China Sea dispute

A ship identified by the Philippine Coast Guard as Chinese maritime militia is seen near Scarborough Shoal in the disputed South China Sea on June 15, 2026. (Photo by Jam STA ROSA / AFP)

‘ASEAN’s gift to the world’: Hormuz crisis sharpens Philippines’ push for South China Sea code

ST's Philippines correspondent Mara Cepeda (left) in an interview with Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro in Manila on June 22.

Satellite images show suspected structure at disputed South China Sea atoll, later removed

A satellite image shows a possible raft at the opening to Scarborough Shoal, in the South China Sea, May 27, 2026. Vantor/Handout via REUTERS

Philippines probes possible new structure at disputed Scarborough Shoal

Scarborough is a prime fishing spot located 200km off the western coast of the Philippines. It is also 874km from Hainan, China’s nearest land mass.

Philippines, Vietnam elevate ties to enhanced strategic partnership

Vietnam's top leader To Lam and Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shake hands during a bilateral meeting at Malacanang Presidential Palace in Manila on June 1.

News analysis

The great Indo-Pacific hedge: Deeper defence ties as US doubts grow and China ascends

Strategic strike group displays CJ-20A cruise missiles during a military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, in Beijing, China, September 3, 2025. REUTERS/Tingshu Wang

China opposes any country using freedom of navigation to undermine sovereignty

A Navy miniature is seen in front of displayed Chinese and Taiwanese flags in this illustration taken, April 11, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

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MDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.