The Philippines is taking significant steps to strengthen its defense capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. As part of its broader strategy to bolster external defense, the country is pursuing the acquisition of the US-made Typhon missile launcher, a move that signals Manila’s commitment to enhancing its military arsenal with advanced weaponry.
On August 29, General Romeo Brawner Jr., the Philippines’ military chief, announced the country’s intention to procure the Mid-Range Capability (MRC) missile system, commonly known as the Typhon. This announcement underscores the Philippines’ efforts to modernize its defense forces, particularly in response to evolving security threats. The Typhon, a cutting-edge land-based, ground-launched platform, is designed to fire both the Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) and the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile, which are crucial for extended-range strike capabilities.
During a press conference, General Brawner emphasized the importance of integrating modern missile systems into the country’s defense strategy. He noted that acquiring the latest weapon systems is vital for the Philippines to develop the intended deterrence effect and protect its territorial integrity. The ongoing training of Philippine military personnel in operating the MRC system reflects the country’s readiness to adopt such advanced technologies, should the acquisition proceed.
In April, the US Army temporarily deployed a Typhon launcher in Northern Luzon as part of a joint training exercise with Philippine troops. This deployment, although temporary, provided invaluable hands-on experience for Philippine forces, allowing them to become familiar with the system’s operations. The Typhon’s presence in the region, however, has not been without controversy, particularly with its impending removal by September.
The deployment of the Typhon missile system in the Philippines has elicited strong reactions from Beijing. China’s Defense Minister, Dong Jun, condemned the presence of the system, labeling it a “real threat to regional security.” Beijing’s concerns highlight the broader regional implications of the Typhon deployment, particularly in the context of the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, areas of significant strategic interest for China.
Russia has also expressed disapproval of the Typhon deployment. In July, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia would resume the production of intermediate- and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles, citing the US’s deployment of the MRC system to the Philippines as a contributing factor. This development underscores the growing tensions surrounding missile technology, particularly in light of the expiration of the 2019 treaty between the US and Russia that banned certain ranges of land-based ballistic and cruise missiles.
The Typhon missile system, with its ability to launch both the SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, offers the Philippines a significant boost in its defense capabilities. The SM-6 has a range of over 240 kilometers, while the Tomahawk can reach up to 2,500 kilometers, enabling the Philippines to cover vast areas, including strategic regions like the South China Sea. Such capabilities would not only enhance the country’s defense posture but also serve as a powerful deterrent against potential aggressors.
Currently, the Philippines’ missile arsenal includes the BrahMos, a medium-range supersonic cruise missile acquired from India. The BrahMos, with its impressive speed and range, has already strengthened the country’s defense capabilities, particularly in the face of growing tensions with China. The potential addition of the Typhon system would complement the BrahMos, creating a more comprehensive missile defense network.
General Brawner had earlier proposed the establishment of a dedicated unit within the Philippine Army to manage the BrahMos missiles, ensuring their operational readiness. This approach could be similarly applied to the Typhon system, should the acquisition be approved. Sherwin Ona, a political science professor and former navy officer, highlighted the strategic significance of such systems, noting that the Typhon could be a game changer in the Philippines’ territorial defense strategy.
Despite the strategic advantages, the acquisition of the Typhon missile system faces several obstacles. One major challenge is the stringent US regulations governing the export of advanced military technology. These regulations could complicate the sale, as Washington may be wary of escalating tensions in the region or being perceived as directly involved in regional conflicts.
Additionally, the acquisition of the Typhon system could contribute to an arms race in the Indo-Pacific region. With China’s increasing military expenditure and the deployment of advanced weaponry, the introduction of the Typhon could further destabilize the already fragile security balance in the region. This potential arms race poses a significant concern for regional peace and stability.
Internal political dynamics in the Philippines also add a layer of complexity to the potential acquisition. The ongoing rivalry between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte could influence the country’s foreign policy direction, particularly concerning defense procurement. The Duterte family’s known pro-Beijing stance raises questions about the feasibility of the Typhon acquisition, as it could lead to a shift in the country’s foreign policy priorities.
The Philippines’ pursuit of the Typhon missile system represents a crucial step in bolstering its external defense capabilities. The strategic advantages offered by the Typhon, particularly in terms of range and deterrence, make it a valuable addition to the country’s military arsenal. However, the challenges and controversies surrounding the acquisition, including regional tensions, US export regulations, and internal political dynamics, must be carefully navigated. As the Philippines continues to modernize its defense forces, the successful acquisition of the Typhon missile system could significantly enhance its ability to protect its territorial integrity and maintain regional stability.