U.S. deploys Typhon missile system to Philippines

The U.S. has deployed a new missile system called the Typhon in the Philippines. This system can target important sites in mainland China and has raised concerns in Beijing. It is the first time since the Cold War that a long-range land-based missile launcher has been placed outside the U.S. The Typhon can fire missiles up to 1,200 miles, which means it can reach many areas in southeastern China, the South China Sea, and the Taiwan Strait. This deployment aims to deter Chinese aggression and support allies like the Philippines and Taiwan, which have had tensions with China. The Chinese government reacted strongly, calling the deployment an arms race. They demanded the removal of the Typhon and warned of potential retaliation. Russia also criticized the move, comparing it to past missile deployments during the Cold War that escalated tensions. The U.S. Army first brought the Typhon to the Philippines for joint exercises last year. The system is designed to be mobile and harder to detect, allowing the U.S. to position it strategically across the Indo-Pacific region. There are discussions about possibly expanding access to the Typhon for the Philippine military. While some view the deployment as a deterrent, others worry it could escalate tensions further. The Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has indicated that he would remove the Typhon if China reduces its aggressive activities in the South China Sea. As the situation develops, the responses of the U.S., China, and other regional allies will play a critical role in shaping future relations and security in the Indo-Pacific region.