The Philippines has made headlines with its announcement to acquire the United States’ Typhon missile system, signaling its intent to reinforce its maritime security amid rising tensions with China. Lieutenant-General Roy Galido, the head of the Philippine military, confirmed the plans during a press conference, stating the acquisition aims "to protect our sovereignty" and secure the country’s maritime interests.
The Typhon missile system, produced by Lockheed Martin, has been deployed by the U.S. Army for military exercises in the northern Philippines. This system features mid-range capabilities, with reported ranges of up to 300 miles (approximately 480 kilometers), allowing the Philippines to project force outward up to 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers). This range corresponds directly with the limits of the Philippines' maritime entitlements under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
General Galido emphasized the need for the Typhon system as necessary for the country’s defense strategy, which focuses on the unique challenges of being an archipelagic nation. "We see its feasibility and its functionality in our concept of archipelagic defense implementation," he remarked, highlighting the importance of securing the nation’s marine resources against foreign incursions.
China swiftly condemned this defense measure, warning against what it termed as the potential for an arms race in the Asia Pacific region. Mao Ning, spokeswoman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the acquisition as "an extremely irresponsible choice for the history of its own people and the people of Southeast Asia, as well as for regional security." Her comments reflect China’s increasing anxiety over U.S. military presence and assistance to its Southeast Asian partners.
"The region needs peace and prosperity, not missiles and confrontation," Mao insisted, urging the Philippines to reconsider its defense strategies. The concern from Beijing is understandable, as its territorial claims over the South China Sea often clash with the interests of the Philippines and Vietnam, both of whom have contested waters within the region.
Despite these criticisms, General Galido reinforced the Philippines' right to bolster its military capabilities. He underscored the nation’s commitment stating, "We should not be bothered by others' seeming insecurities because we don't have any plans to go outside of our country's interests." This assertive stance reveals the Philippines’ strategic pivot under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. since he took office, emphasizing national sovereignty.
The acquisition of the Typhon missile system is not yet budgeted for 2025 and is expected to take two or more years to finalize, reflecting the extensive planning required for such advanced military hardware. Historical precedents suggest the Philippines may need patience for delivery; for example, it took five years for Manila to receive the BrahMos cruise missile system it contracted previously.
This move aligns with the Philippines’ long-standing military alliance with the United States, which has been growing stronger as both countries seek to counterbalance China’s aggressive territorial assertions. President Marcos’s administration has sought to deepen collaborative defense measures, and the Typhon system is seen as part of this strategy.
Concerns have been raised by Chinese officials, such as Defense Minister Dong Jun, who earlier warned of the destabilizing effects of U.S. military hardware deployments. The Typhon, according to Jun, could significantly heighten tensions. Still, the Philippine military continues to pursue this acquisition strategy as part of its broader defense narrative.
With the Philippines gearing up for this significant defense acquisition, the international community will be watching closely. This endeavor may not only reshape regional military dynamics but also test the robustness of U.S.-Philippine ties against the backdrop of tense Sino-American relationships. General Galido’s statements echo the commitment to national integrity and responsive defense measures, underscoring the Philippines' resolve to secure its maritime regions against perceived threats.
