South China Sea: PLA tests its landing ships amid tension with Philippines over islands. The People’s Liberation Army conducted drills in the South China Sea with landing ships Danxiashan, Laotieshan, and Lushan, focusing on emergency response and coordinated combat capabilities. Training included berthing, rescue practice, air-defense against drones, and smoke cover missions. These exercises come amid rising tensions with the Philippines over disputed islands, particularly the Second Thomas Shoal. Recent confrontations have included physical clashes and accusations of aggression by both sides.