According to a spokesperson from the Philippine Army, the US mid-range missile system that had caused irritation to China during annual joint military exercises in the Philippines will be removed from the country.
In April, the US Army announced the deployment of the Mid-Range Capability missile system in the northern Philippines. This system is capable of launching the Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) and the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile.
According to Colonel Louie Dema-ala, the Philippine troops have received training on how to effectively utilize and maintain the Typhon missile system. However, it has not been utilized in any live-fire exercises as of yet.
Dema-ala stated that the item would be shipped out of the country in September or possibly earlier, according to the plan.
Currently, the equipment used during the Balikatan and Salaknib exercises is being shipped out by the US Army.
Beijing was furious over the deployment of the mid-range missile system in the Philippines.
In June, Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun cautioned that there are limitations to Beijing’s self-restraint regarding the South China Sea and the deployment of ballistic missiles in the Asia-Pacific region.
During a security forum in Singapore, Dong made it evident that he was referring to the Philippines and the United States. Both countries have been strengthening their defence ties due to China’s increasing military strength and sway.
According to Dong, the regional security and stability have been severely compromised by the deployment of “medium-range ballistic missiles”.
“If one continues to act in such a manner, it will eventually lead to self-destruction.”
