Summary
The US has decided to maintain its Mid-Range Capability (MRC) missile system, known as Typhon, in the northern Philippines indefinitely to bolster deterrence against China. This decision comes despite significant opposition from Beijing, which has expressed alarm over the missile system’s deployment, arguing that it threatens regional security.
The Typhon system, capable of launching Standard Missile-6 and Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles, was first deployed in the Philippines in April 2024 during joint military exercises. The US military views this deployment as a crucial step in enhancing interoperability and defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Philippine officials have indicated that the missile system could remain in place until at least April 2025, coinciding with scheduled large-scale combat exercises between US and Philippine forces. China’s government has vocally opposed the deployment, claiming it exacerbates tensions and threatens peace, as the missile’s range puts Chinese territory within striking distance.
US missile system will remain in Philippines despite China's alarm
Sep. 25 / Business Standard “ American and Filipino security officials have agreed to keep a US mid-range missile system in the northern Philippines indefinitely to boost deterrence...
Sep. 24 / Business Insider “ The US deployed its Mid-Range Capability, or Typhon, system to the Pacific earlier this year. China has expressed frustration with its deployment in the...