In April 2024, the U.S. deployed a Typhon missile launcher in the Philippines at Laoag International Airport, near the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, during joint exercises. Since then, Philippine forces have been training with the system, signalling a significant step in enhancing the country’s defense capabilities. Despite China’s objections, the system has remained in the Philippines.
Typhon Missile Launcher Overview
Developed by Lockheed Martin for the US Army, the Typhon missile launcher has a range of 480 kilometers, with an extended-range version in progress. It enables the Philippine Army to project force up to 200 nautical miles, aligning with the country’s maritime entitlements under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This capability addresses defense challenges in areas beyond the army’s physical reach.
Strategic Importance for the Philippines
The Philippine Army recognizes the Typhon missile system as essential for enhancing the country’s archipelagic defense strategy. Officials emphasized its role in safeguarding national sovereignty, with the final number of units depending on budget considerations. This initiative aligns with joint efforts by the Army, Navy, and Air Force to secure maritime and airspace territories amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.
Acquiring such systems typically takes at least two years from planning to implementation, with no budget currently allocated for 2025. For context, it took five years for the Philippines to receive the BrahMos cruise missile. Despite financial constraints, the military remains committed to strengthening maritime defense.
China’s Objections and Regional Tensions
China criticized the Philippines’ plan to acquire the Typhon missile system, warning it could escalate regional tensions and trigger an arms race. Beijing continues to assert sweeping claims over nearly the entire South China Sea, despite an international ruling rejecting these assertions. Philippine officials dismissed these concerns, reiterating that the system is solely for national defense and sovereignty protection.
Enhancing National Defense Capabilities
The Philippine Army emphasized the Typhon missile system’s importance in supporting maritime and air defense operations, protecting naval, coast guard, and other maritime assets. Collaboration with the US and allied nations remains crucial for advancing defense capabilities. While the exact number of systems to be acquired is undecided, Philippine troops have already begun training on the platform, which will remain in the country for ongoing exercises.
