MANILA The Philippine and U.S. militaries Monday kicked off three weeks of joint exercises that will simulate a "full-scale battle scenario," as the two allies seek to deter to Beijing's ambitions in the disputed South China Sea. Around 17,000 troops are expected to take part in the annual " Balikatan ," or "shoulder to shoulder" drills , which for the first time will include an integrated air and missile defense simulation to be attended by President Ferdinand Marcos. Sophisticated U.S.