Staff Reports
China has voiced strong opposition to the deployment of a new U.S. weapons system in the northern Philippines. A spokesperson for China’s Defence Ministry, Wu Qian, expressed concern that the presence of the intermediate-range Typhon missile system brings “huge risks of war” to the region. The spokesperson labeled the system as a “strategic and offensive weapon with a strong Cold War color.”
The Typhon missile system was deployed to the Philippines last month as part of a joint exercise between the U.S. and the Philippine military. Although the U.S. did not use the missile system during the exercises, Philippine military official Col. Michael Logico explained that the purpose was to test the feasibility of transporting the 40-ton weapon system by air.
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The United States plans to bring the missile system back home after the training exercise is completed. Lt. Gen. Michael Cederholm, commander of the U.S. 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, emphasized the importance of the training in strengthening the alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines.
In response to the deployment, Chinese officials have expressed concern about foreign military involvement in the South China Sea. They argue that outside countries participating in military drills in the region only serve to escalate tensions and create instability.
Philippine activists have also called for the removal of the Typhon missile system from the country, fearing that its presence could make the Philippines a more prominent target if a conflict were to arise with China. On the other hand, defense analysts argue that the missile system will enhance the Philippines’ military capabilities for deterrence.
The deployment of the Typhon missile system in the Philippines has raised concerns about potential escalations and has led to strong reactions from China, prompting discussions about the broader regional implications.
