US missile deployment in Philippines sparks China tensions
The United States has deployed the Typhon missile system in the Philippines, leading to strong reactions from China. The system is designed to protect the Philippines and Taiwan from potential conflict with Beijing.
The United States has decided to deploy the Typhon missile system in the Philippines, reports "The Wall Street Journal" (WSJ). This move has been met with a strong reaction from China. "China will not sit idly by when its security interests are harmed or threatened," stated the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Typhon system, capable of launching Tomahawk missiles with a range of 2,000 kilometres, was moved to the island of Luzon last year.
What are the reactions to the deployment of Typhon?
The deployment of the Typhon system in the Philippines is the first action of its kind since the Cold War. It comes as a response to the growing presence of Chinese medium-range missiles in the Pacific. In the event of conflict, the system will help protect the Philippines and Taiwan from China.
Russia has also criticised this move, comparing it to the deployment of Pershing II missiles in 1983, which at that time triggered mass protests.
What does Typhon deployment mean for the region?
The Philippines, which agreed to the deployment of the system, is considering purchasing it. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supports military cooperation with the USA, which has increased tensions with China. Marcos noted that he may remove Typhon if China ceases its aggression in the South China Sea.
The Typhon system, although not yet armed, is seen by Beijing as a threat. Introducing this system increases the risk of escalating conflict in the region. In 2024, the USA announced plans to deploy Tomahawk missiles in Germany by 2026, which was met with threats from Russia. Analysts from Defence Express predict that American missiles in Germany could reach targets in Russia, further complicating the international situation.
