On November 13, 2025, the United States Marine Corps deployed a unit of unarmed MQ-9A Reaper drones to the South China Sea at the request of the Philippine government, aimed at enhancing maritime security amid rising tensions with China. This temporary deployment, which reflects a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, is designed to improve surveillance capabilities and bolster Philippine intelligence against aggressive actions by Chinese vessels. The increased US military presence and infrastructure investments in the region underscore strategic cooperation with Manila, which is crucial for maintaining stability and ensuring freedom of navigation in contested waters. India’s interests in upholding regional security are emphasized, as collective deterrence plays a significant role in countering unilateral aggression in vital maritime corridors.