China's Call For Removal Of PHL's Typhon Missile System: A Threat To Peace?

Luna Greco

6 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

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China's Strategic Concerns and Justifications

China's stated reasons for demanding the removal of the PHL Typhon missile system center on perceived threats to its sovereignty and the destabilization of the region. Beijing views the missile system as a provocation, escalating regional tensions and undermining its claims in the South China Sea. Their justifications include:

• Violation of claimed territorial waters/airspace: China claims extensive maritime territories in the South China Sea, encompassing areas within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The deployment of the Typhon system, from China's perspective, represents an encroachment upon these claimed territories. This is a key element in understanding China's call for removal.

• Escalation of regional military buildup: The presence of the Typhon missile system is seen by China as contributing to an arms race in the region, increasing the risk of miscalculation and conflict. This aligns with China’s broader concerns about the increasing military presence of other nations in the South China Sea.

• Disruption of China’s claimed economic activities in the area: China's expansive claims include rights to fishing and resource extraction within the disputed areas. The Typhon missile system, in their view, could potentially disrupt these activities, adding fuel to the already volatile situation.

• Potential for miscalculation and accidental conflict: The deployment of advanced weaponry like the Typhon system increases the risk of accidental clashes or miscalculations, which could rapidly escalate into a larger conflict. This concern is central to China's argument against the missile system.

This demand needs to be understood within the broader context of China's assertive foreign policy in the South China Sea. China’s actions often disregard international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which grants coastal states sovereign rights over their EEZs. This disregard for international norms is a major source of tension in the region.

The Philippines' Position and Justification for the Typhon Missile System

The Philippines justifies the deployment of the Typhon missile system as a measure of self-defense and a deterrent against potential aggression. The system is viewed as crucial for protecting the nation's territorial integrity and asserting its sovereign rights within its EEZ. Their arguments include:

• Assertion of sovereign rights within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): The Philippines maintains that the deployment of the Typhon system is entirely within its sovereign rights under UNCLOS.

• Need for enhanced defense capabilities against potential threats: The Philippines faces increasing threats from various sources and views the Typhon system as essential for enhancing its defense capabilities. This strengthens its ability to respond to potential aggressions effectively.

• Alliance commitments and support from other countries: The Philippines' decision to deploy the Typhon system is also influenced by its alliances and the support it receives from partner countries, particularly the United States.

• Focus on maintaining regional stability through strength: The Philippines argues that possessing a robust defense capability, including the Typhon system, contributes to regional stability by deterring potential aggressors.

The historical context of disputes in the South China Sea is crucial. The Philippines has long been involved in territorial disputes with China, and the deployment of the Typhon system reflects a shift towards a more assertive stance in protecting its interests. The complex relationship between China and the Philippines, characterized by both cooperation and contention, significantly influences this issue.

Regional and International Implications

China's demand for the removal of the Typhon missile system has significant regional and international implications. The potential consequences include:

• Impact on US-Philippines relations: The issue directly impacts the US-Philippines alliance, given the US's support for the Philippines' defense capabilities. The situation could further strengthen the alliance or potentially introduce new friction depending on the resolutions taken.

• Potential for increased military exercises in the region: Tensions surrounding the Typhon system could lead to increased military exercises and deployments by various countries in the region, further escalating the situation. China's response will also likely shape the nature of this military escalation.

• Reactions from ASEAN countries and other international actors: Other ASEAN countries and international actors will closely observe the situation and their reactions will depend on their individual stances on the issue and relationship with China and the Philippines. This will certainly have implications for regional security architecture and stability.

• The role of international law and arbitration rulings: The ongoing dispute highlights the importance of international law and the need to abide by UNCLOS and arbitration rulings, which are central to resolving the issue. The implications for these rulings, and other international legal frameworks, are also at stake.

The Role of International Law and Diplomacy

International law, particularly UNCLOS, plays a crucial role in resolving the dispute. UNCLOS establishes the rights and responsibilities of states concerning maritime zones, including EEZs. The arbitration ruling on the South China Sea case further strengthens the relevance of international law in the conflict. Diplomacy and conflict resolution mechanisms are essential for finding a peaceful solution that respects international law and the sovereign rights of all parties involved. Dialogue and negotiation are crucial in defusing the tensions.

Conclusion

China's call for the removal of the PHL Typhon missile system highlights the complexities of the South China Sea disputes. The differing perspectives of China and the Philippines, rooted in competing territorial claims and security concerns, underscore the challenges in achieving lasting peace and stability in the region. Whether China's demand genuinely poses a threat to peace remains a complex question, dependent on how both sides choose to respond. A peaceful resolution respecting international law is crucial to prevent further escalation.

Call to Action: Stay informed about the evolving situation concerning China's call for removal of the PHL's Typhon missile system. The importance of peaceful resolution and adherence to international law cannot be overstated. Participate in informed discussions and advocate for peaceful solutions in the South China Sea. Further research on the implications of China’s military activities in the region and the potential for escalation is crucial to understanding this complex issue and preventing future conflicts related to China's call for removal of the PHL Typhon missile system.