AFP welcomes US MRC Typhon missile deployment

On Tuesday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) welcomed reports that the United States will be deploying additional units of Medium Range Capability (MRC) Typhon missile systems to the country.

AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla stated in a press briefing that additional assets will enhance training for personnel and expressed willingness to accept the deployment, noting 'the more, the merrier.'

Philippine Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala added that having additional Typhon units will greatly help in the training of soldiers who would be tasked with handling similar weapon systems in the future.

Defense News reported on May 18 that the US Army's 3rd Multidomain Task Force unit is readying its second Typhon battery for deployment in the Pacific theater over the next year, including live-fire opportunities.

Philippine Navy spokesperson Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad emphasized that the country's defense posture is not aimed at any specific nation and aligns with international law, welcoming all opportunities to train using modern weapons.

China has previously urged the Philippines to remove US Typhon missile launchers, but President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. offered a conditional deal related to Chinese acts of aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

The AFP maintains its stance that no other country can dictate how it fortifies its defenses.