The US has deployed two warships in the South China Sea near Scarborough Shoal after a collision involving Chinese ships attempting to deter a Philippine vessel. Scarborough Shoal is claimed by both China and the Philippines, along with other nations in the region. The USS Higgins and USS Cincinnati were shadowed by a Chinese navy ship during their patrol. The US conducts freedom-of-navigation operations to contest China's expansive claims in these disputed waters, which has elicited strong reactions from China. The Philippines, a US ally, may receive defense under treaty obligations if attacked.
The US has deployed two warships in the South China Sea near Scarborough Shoal following a high-seas accident involving Chinese and Philippine ships.
The US navy has conducted freedom-of-navigation voyages in the South China Sea to challenge China's broad claim over disputed waters.
The tensions around Scarborough Shoal have intensified with near confrontations between the Chinese and Philippine coastguards in recent years.
The Philippines is a treaty ally of the US and has been warned that the US is obligated to defend it against armed attacks in the region.
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