United States and Philippines hold live-fire missile exercise amid heightened regional tensions

CABANATUAN, PHILIPPINES - JUNE 30: A missile is being launched from the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, during a live-fire joint exercise between American and Filipino forces, in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, on June 30, 2025. The live-ammunition exercise, which is a part of the 'Salaknib' or 'Shield' bilateral exercise between the United States and Philippine armies, features the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or the HIMARS missile system. The drill, according to authorities, is aimed at enhancing defense preparedness, developing operational capabilities and strengthening the military of the Southeast Asian country in defending against external threats, amid escalating tensions between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea. (Photo by Daniel Ceng/Anadolu via Getty Images)