US plans to deploy more missile launchers to the Philippines despite China's alarm

The U.S. plans to deploy more advanced missile systems in the Philippines to deter aggression in the South China Sea, where it condemned China's "illegal activities."

China has voiced concerns over these deployments, which include the Typhon mid-range missile system. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has refused China's demand to remove these systems.

U.S. and Philippine officials recently discussed defense strategies and plans for joint military exercises. The U.S. aims to enhance the Philippine military while supporting regional security as part of U.S.-Philippines Bilateral Strategic Dialogue.

The February 2026 Bilateral Strategic Dialogue, includes $144 million for infrastructure upgrades at Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites,

$1.5 million to build a small modular reactor control room simulator, and $250 million to support health security for Filipinos, while also committing to increased deployments of advanced U.S. missile and unmanned systems that it first sent in 2024 and reaffirming that an armed attack on Philippine or U.S. forces, vessels, or aircraft in the South China Sea would trigger obligations under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

Philippine ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez stated the deployments are for deterrence, emphasizing, “It’s purely for deterrence.”