AFP Supports US Typhon Battery Deployment
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has expressed strong support for the possible deployment of a second battery of the Typhon mid-range capability to the country by the United States. This move aims to reinforce the AFP’s deterrent power against China’s “illegal” and “aggressive” activities in the West Philippine Sea.
AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla emphasized the benefits of the deployment. “Bukas po ang Armed Forces of the Philippines sa ganitong hakbang lalo na’t ito ay nagbubukas po ng mas maraming pagkakataon para po sa joint trainings, ‘yung interoperability po natin at capability enhancement na rin po,” she said. This step will create more opportunities for joint exercises, better coordination, and overall capability upgrades.
Enhancing Defense Preparedness with Advanced Systems
Padilla further explained that the Typhon system allows Filipino soldiers to gain experience operating advanced missile technology. “Nagbibigay po ito ng daan para sa ating mga sundalo na matuto, maka-angkop din po at makipag-operate sa advanced systems na makakatulong sa ating sariling defense preparedness,” she added.
Developed by Lockheed Martin, the Typhon mid-range missile system can launch different missiles such as the Standard Missile 6 (SM-6), effective against air and sea targets over 200 kilometers away, and the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM), capable of striking long-range targets.
US Military Presence and Regional Impact
The first Typhon battery was deployed in April 2024 during the Philippine Army’s Salaknib Exercise and the AFP’s Balikatan Exercise. Alongside Typhon, the US also introduced the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) anti-ship missile system for these exercises. Neither system has been withdrawn since, drawing criticism from China, which warned about potential arms races in the Indo-Pacific.
AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. and Army Chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido have both shown interest in acquiring similar missile capabilities. Colonel Padilla clarified, “Ito pong Typhon missile system, hindi lang ito armas. It is a symbol of deterrence and not aggression.” She added, “Na-e-enhance po nito ang multi-domain defense posture particularly sa ating Indo-Pacific theatre.”
AFP Stresses Defense, Not Provocation
The AFP spokesperson stressed that the presence of these missile systems aims to strengthen defense, not provoke conflict. “Ang layunin po ng AFP ay malinaw: depensa hindi probokasyon. So ang deployment po ng mga sistemang ito ay ambag po sa kapayapaan at katatagan ng rehiyon,” Padilla said.
The US Indo-Pacific Command has also indicated openness to deploying a second Typhon battery if the Philippine government approves. Sources note this would further solidify regional security cooperation and readiness.
For more news and updates on AFP Typhon battery deployment, visit Filipinokami.com.