LOCK AND LOADED: HOW THE PHILIPPINES’ NEW MISSILE SYSTEM CHALLENGES CHINA

By Yana Aviel A. Domingo

The United States has stationed its powerful Typhon missile system in the Philippines, and China isn’t happy about it. This deployment is more than just another military move—it’s a game-changer in regional security. The missile’s capabilities and positioning have reshaped the balance of power in the South China Sea, and Beijing sees it as a direct threat. But what makes this system so special? And why is China so concerned?

At first glance, the Typhon Mid-Range Capability (MRC) might look like just another missile launcher. But under the hood, it’s a highly adaptable, fast-moving, and deadly piece of military technology.

The system can fire two types of missiles: the Tomahawk Cruise Missiles and the SM-6 Missiles. The Tomahawk Cruise Missiles can travel over 1,800 kilometers, striking deep into enemy territory with pinpoint accuracy, according to the Associated Press. Meanwhile, Reuters shared that the SM-6 Missiles are versatile, capable of shooting down enemy aircraft, defending against ballistic missiles, and even attacking ships.

This means that from the Philippines, the Typhon can reach Chinese military bases, ships, and even mainland targets—something that dramatically shifts the region’s security. With that, China’s response has been immediate and harsh, warning against “provocations” and escalating military drills near the Philippines.

But before this, China enjoyed a sense of security, knowing that U.S. forces in the region lacked land-based missiles that could hit deep into its territory. The Typhon changes that overnight. Suddenly, key Chinese military installations in the South China Sea and beyond are vulnerable to a swift U.S. or allied response.

For years, China has been aggressively expanding in the South China Sea, building artificial islands, and harassing Filipino fishermen and military forces. The Typhon gives the Philippines a powerful deterrent, making it riskier for China to continue its provocations.

Moreover, China has long tried to isolate the Philippines from the U.S. and other allies. The deployment of the Typhon missile shows that the U.S. is committed to defending the Philippines—and that Manila is willing to stand up to Beijing.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has made it clear that the missile system is for defense, not offense. In fact, he’s even offered a deal to China, “Stop harassing us in the South China Sea, and we’ll return the missiles to the U.S.” That offer puts the ball in China’s court. Will they back off, or will they continue their aggressive tactics?

The Typhon missile system isn’t just a piece of hardware—it’s a symbol of shifting power in the region. For the Philippines, it’s a message that they won’t be pushed around. For China, it’s a reminder that their actions have consequences.

Cartoon by Merrielle Lagrimas