23-12-2024 (MANILA) The Philippine military announced plans on Monday to procure the American-made Typhon missile system, marking a significant step in strengthening its maritime defence capabilities amidst ongoing territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.
Lieutenant-General Roy Galido, Chief of the Philippine Army, revealed during a year-end press briefing at Army Headquarters in Taguig City that the acquisition is being pursued as part of the nation’s comprehensive archipelagic defence strategy.
“We are advancing this capability to safeguard our sovereignty,” Galido stated, emphasising that the final procurement numbers would be determined by budgetary considerations. The system, which boasts a range of 480 kilometres, would enable the Army to project force up to the nation’s 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone.
The announcement follows the system’s deployment to northern Philippines earlier this year during joint military exercises with US forces. Despite Beijing’s protests, the platform has remained in the country for continued training purposes.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from China, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning condemning it as a “provocative and dangerous move” that could spark an “arms race” in the region. “What Southeast Asia needs is peace and prosperity, not missiles and confrontation,” Mao stated.
The procurement timeline remains uncertain, with Galido noting that weapons acquisitions typically require at least two years following budget approval. The system is not currently included in the 2025 defence budget.
This development comes amid escalating tensions between Manila and Beijing over disputed territories in the South China Sea, where recent months have seen increasingly confrontational encounters between Chinese vessels and Philippine maritime forces.
The Typhon system, developed by American defence contractor Lockheed Martin, would complement existing Philippine military assets, including the recently acquired BrahMos cruise missiles. Galido stressed that the initiative aims to enhance coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force in protecting Philippine maritime interests.
Addressing concerns about regional stability, Galido maintained that the acquisition falls within the Philippines’ legitimate defence requirements. “Our focus remains strictly on protecting our national interests, without any intention to project power beyond our territories,” he emphasised.
