Typhon missiles in philippines heighten US‑China tensions
The United States has deployed the Typhon missile system in the Philippines, prompting a strong reaction from China. The system is intended to safeguard the Philippines and Taiwan amid potential conflicts with Beijing.
The deployment of the Typhon missile system in the Philippines was reported by "The Wall Street Journal" (WSJ). China's response was swift, with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating, "China will not sit idly by when its security interests are harmed or threatened." The Typhon system, which is capable of launching Tomahawk missiles with a range of 1,243 miles, was relocated to the island of Luzon last year.
What are the reactions to the deployment of Typhon?
This deployment marks the first such action since the Cold War. It is a response to the growing presence of Chinese medium-range missiles in the Pacific. In the event of conflict, the system aims to protect the Philippines and Taiwan from China.
Russia has also criticized this move, likening it to the 1983 deployment of Pershing II missiles, which sparked mass protests at the time.
What does Typhon deployment mean for the region?
The Philippines, which has agreed to host the system, is considering purchasing it. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supports military cooperation with the U.S., a stance that heightens tensions with China. Marcos noted that he might remove the Typhon system if China ceases its aggression in the South China Sea.
Although not yet armed, the Typhon system is perceived by Beijing as a threat. Its introduction raises the risk of escalating conflict in the region. In 2024, the U.S. announced plans to deploy Tomahawk missiles in Germany by 2026, which has drawn threats from Russia. Analysts from Defence Express predict that with American missiles in Germany, targets in Russia could be reached, further complicating the international situation.
