Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

China has once again condemned the deployment of the US Typhon missile system in the Philippines, accusing both the United States and the Philippines of escalating regional tensions in Southeast Asia.

Let’s bring you up to speed: Back in April 2023, the US Typhon missile system was brought to the Philippines as part of the 39th Balikatan military exercises, a joint training initiative involving the US, Philippines, Australia, and France. The US initially said it was a temporary deployment to test the system’s capabilities, but the missile launcher remained in the Philippines. This extension has drawn significant concern from China, which views the system’s deployment as a strategic threat due to its range covering both Taiwan and contested areas in the South China Sea.

What’s going on now: Chinese defense officials are criticizing the deployment, with a spokesman for China’s defense ministry warning that China was prepared to take “countermeasures” if the system is not pulled out “immediately.” The spokesman, Wu Qian, added that “history and reality have repeatedly proven that wherever US weapons are deployed, the risk of war and conflicts will rise, and the local people will suffer undeserved suffering from war.”

The Philippines isn’t having it: The Philippines has defended the presence of the US Typhon missile system, noting that China has no right to order its removal from their territory. Army Brigadier General Michael Logico dismissed China’s objections, stating, “China has no right to tell us what to do.” Philippine officials have viewed the deployment as critical for deterrence, particularly in light of increasing Chinese aggression in the South China Sea.  

More on the missile system: The Typhon missile system is a versatile mid-range capability platform capable of launching a variety of missiles, including Standard SM-6 missiles with a range of up to 300 nautical miles and Tomahawk cruise missiles that can reach targets up to 870 nautical miles away. Designed for rapid deployment and precision, the Typhon enhances both offensive and defensive operations, providing strategic flexibility in targeting enemy ships, aircraft, and land-based installations.