Philippines Boosts Military Strength with New Missile System in Tense Waters

Philippines Boosts Military Strength with New Missile System in Tense Waters

(DailyAnswer.org) – Amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, the Philippines is fortifying its defense with the U.S. Typhon missile system.

At a Glance

  • Philippine soldiers to train on U.S. Typhon missile system in February.
  • The U.S. deployed the Typhon system in the northern Philippines during previous exercises.
  • China opposes U.S. military assistance to the Philippines.
  • Training includes payload delivery, focuses on system capabilities.
  • The Typhon system aligns with the Philippines’ maritime defense interests.

Training in February

Philippine soldiers will participate in training on the U.S. Typhon missile system starting February. This initiative strengthens military cooperation with the U.S. amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea. The training is part of the annual Salaknib joint exercise with an undisclosed location. Each year, the exercise aims to bolster military readiness for potential maritime threats.

The Typhon system, including Tomahawk and SM-6 missiles, enhances the maritime capabilities of the region. This system represents technological advancement in deterring threats to national security. Philippine soldiers’ training will concentrate on the “payload delivery system,” showcasing capabilities without live firing. This strategic drill exemplifies how the Philippines might integrate advanced weaponry.

Conflict and Criticism

The U.S. deployed the Typhon midrange missile system in the northern Philippines for joint exercises in April last year. Its subsequent retention has intensified diplomatic friction with China, which views the enhanced U.S.-Philippine military alliance as a threat. Beijing warns the deployment incites geopolitical confrontation in the region, heightening an arms race.

“Let me stress again that by bringing this strategic offensive weapon into this part of the world, the Philippines is essentially creating tensions and antagonism in the region and inciting geopolitical confrontation and an arms race,” – Mao Ning

Despite China’s criticisms, the Philippines remains resolute in its pursuit of national security measures. The mutual defense treaty with the U.S. aligns with the Philippines’ goals, fostering an enduring defense collaboration. Engagement with U.S. forces solidifies the Philippines’ strategic position amidst regional disputes.

Defense and Maritime Security

The Philippines seeks to modernize its defense forces, advocating for the acquisition of additional Typhon missile system launchers. The system reaches targets over 370 kilometers, aligning with maritime entitlements granted by international law. Philippine defense priorities focus on safeguarding territorial waters, vital against adversarial actions.

“This is a continuation of what we’ve learned in the first (training) iteration. New units will be involved in the training and a continuation of the previous platoon that was trained last year,” – Colonel Louie Dema-ala

Philippines to Train With US Typhon Missile System Next Month

Preparations for the Balikatan exercises, projected to be one of the largest, are underway. Such activities exemplify the deep-seated and expanding security partnership between the U.S. and the Philippines, strategically crucial to counterbalance regional assertiveness by neighboring forces.

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