The Philippine Defense Minister announced on Tuesday that the country’s decision to deploy the U.S. Typhoon medium-range missile system and plan to purchase missile systems are within its sovereign rights and not subject to foreign restrictions. This move has been criticized by the Chinese Communist Party as provocative and escalating regional tensions.
In a statement, Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro stated: “The deployment and procurement of any assets related to the security and defense of the Philippines fall within the sovereignty of the Philippines and are not subject to any foreign veto.”
He further stated that the deployment of the Typhoon missile assets by the Philippines for joint exercises is “legal, legitimate, and beyond reproach.”
Philippine Army Chief Roy Galido mentioned on Monday that the military is planning to acquire a medium-range missile system to defend national territory amid tensions in the South China Sea with the Chinese Communist Party.
“We are in negotiations because we see its feasibility and adaptability,” he said.
In April of this year, the U.S. deployed the Typhoon medium-range missile system in northern Philippines. Since then, the U.S. and Philippines have been conducting joint exercises for the potential use of heavy weaponry. Both sides have agreed to indefinitely keep the system in the Philippines to enhance deterrence.
A spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Monday that the Philippines’ deployment of a medium-range missile system will intensify geopolitical confrontation and arms races.
China is particularly wary of the deployment of the Typhoon system because it is capable of launching Tomahawk land-attack missiles. The Tomahawk missiles have a range of over 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) and can target objectives within China.
(Reference: Reuters and Associated Press)