As tensions escalate in the South China Sea, India is being considered for inclusion in a new military alliance called the ‘Squad,’ currently comprising Japan, Australia, the United States, and the Philippines. This development comes as the Indo-Pacific region witnesses increasing military activity, with China asserting dominance in disputed waters.
Philippines Armed Forces Chief General Romeo S. Brawner revealed at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi that discussions are underway to expand the Squad, potentially inviting India and South Korea. The informal grouping has been conducting joint maritime activities for over a year, focusing on military cooperation, intelligence sharing, and strategic deterrence.
General Brawner, speaking alongside military leaders from Japan, Australia, the US, and India, emphasized the need for closer collaboration among nations that share concerns over China’s territorial ambitions. He asserted that Manila was strengthening its defense partnerships to enhance deterrence against Beijing’s aggressive posturing in the South China Sea.
The potential inclusion of India and South Korea comes as China continues to disregard international maritime laws, asserting unilateral control over the resource-rich region. Despite a 2016 international tribunal ruling rejecting China’s claims, Beijing remains defiant, escalating confrontations with neighboring nations, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei, and Vietnam.
“The South China Sea is a crucial global trade route with over $3 trillion in annual trade. We find commonality with India because we have a common adversary. I am not afraid to say that China is our common enemy. It is vital that we collaborate, exchange intelligence, and strengthen our military ties,” General Brawner said.
The Philippines already maintains a defense partnership with India, and General Brawner confirmed that he would formally invite India to join the Squad in a meeting with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. However, a senior Indian defense official later stated that no confirmation had been made on whether the matter was officially discussed.
While India has yet to respond to the proposal, its growing role in regional security—alongside its Quad partnership with the US, Japan, and Australia signals a broader commitment to maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific.
