US, Philippines launch joint South China Sea patrols: Carter

The US said Thursday it has launched South China Sea patrols with the Philippines and will temporarily deploy 275 troops and five warplanes in the country, escalating its presence amid a territorial dispute with China. "In the South China Sea, China's actions in particular are causing anxiety and raising regional tensions," Defence Secretary Ashton Carter said during a visit to Manila. The joint naval patrols, which began last month, "contribute to the safety and security of the region's waters,