Description: US and South Korean military forces conducted joint aerial military drills on the peninsula which involved the US B – 1B bomber as well as various F – 16 and F – 35 fighter jets. The drills come as a response to recent escalated threats from North Korea, which threatened to resume increasing nuclear capabilities. The drills also highlighted US and South Korean deterrent capabilities in the region as recent military activities also saw Chinese ships and aerial assets violating territorial waters and airspace in the Philippines.
Impact: North Korea’s refusal to resume denuclearization talks has prompted US – led allies to enhance military assets and capabilities amid the ever-revolving escalating tensions on the Korean peninsula. Chinese activities are also increased as China also expanded its military and naval forces presence in the Indo – Pacific region. Military tensions in the region are expected to further escalate as activities from both the US and China indicate on constant and comprehensive military presence aimed at deterring direct military confrontation in the region.