The Philippines is set to receive patrol boats and aircraft from Japan in the latest attempt from world powers to counter China's expansion in the South China Sea.

Leaders from the two countries struck a deal on Tuesday for Tokyo to furnish Manila with two large patrol vessels and loan the Philippines five used TC-90 surveillance aircraft.

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This latest development comes as countries such as India and the United States have increased security co-operations with Southeast Asian nations.

The deal outlines a plan by Japan and other powers to step up efforts to curb China's growing strength by creating a chain of regional allies committed to the status quo.

In May, the United States lifted its 50-year-old arms embargo on Vietnam during a visit by President Barack Obama.

Last week, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Hanoi on a tour of co-operation and goodwill where he revealed plans for India to sell missiles, base Indian ships in Vietnam, and set up a satellite tracking and imaging station in the country.

The move comes as a diplomatic spat between the Philippines and the United States dominated the news on the opening day of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit. A planned meeting between U.S. President Obama and his Philippines counterpart Rodrigo Duterte was scrapped after the latter's remarks about the U.S leader.

Although Japan has no direct stake in the South China Sea, most of its trade passes through the strategic waterpark.

TagsPhillippines, china, Japan