Date of Publication

2025

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in International Studies Major in European Studies

Subject Categories

International and Area Studies

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

International Studies

Thesis Advisor

Elaine C. Tolentino

Defense Panel Chair

Dennis D. Trinidad

Defense Panel Member

Charmaine M. Willoughby
Sherwin E. Ona

Abstract/Summary

The post-Cold War editions of the biennial US-led Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) has been dubbed the world’s largest multinational military exercise (MME) in the maritime domain. Its grandiosity is attributed to new participants, not limited to those in the Pacific Rim states, and persisting American allies that are largely attributed with being classified as middle powers. Shedding light on the experiences among the newer states’ participation debuts is limited by the literature showcasing RIMPAC as an MME in general, activities within RIMPAC, and state intentions for participation, compounded by the lack of theory-based analysis. This study aims to explain post-Cold War RIMPAC participation among newer participants by embedding a theoretical angle through the middle power IR framework. It argues that new, post-Cold War participants possess a Blue Water-level naval force that does not surpass the host nation; identifies as a partner: a junior partner to the great power host nation (US) and security guarantor for other states; and adheres to multilateralism by participating in multilateral interoperability activities of the exercise. The study looks at the cases of three post-Cold War participants, the Philippines and France, through Sarah Teo’s middle power IR framework. The study provides an understanding of Exercise RIMPAC and how more states could be engaged to join the exercise or other MMEs.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Middle powers; Pacific Area; France--Foreign relations--Philippines; Philippines--Foreign relations--France

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Embargo Period

8-13-2025

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