China has called on Japan and the United States to withdraw the US-developed Typhon missile system after its unveiling in Japan during ongoing military exercises. The “Resolute Dragon” drills, which commenced last Thursday, are set to continue until September 25, according to Tokyo’s defense ministry.
Japan’s Self-Defense Forces confirmed to reporters that the Typhon missile system was showcased for the first time during these exercises, although they clarified that the weapon would not be fired. In response, China’s foreign ministry expressed strong opposition, urging the US and Japan to “promptly withdraw” the missile system. Spokesman Lin Jian criticized the deployment, stating that it disregards China’s serious concerns.
Lin elaborated during a regular press briefing, asserting, “The United States and Japan, disregarding China’s solemn concerns, have insisted on deploying the Typhon mid-range missile system in Japan under the pretext of joint exercises.” His remarks underscored China’s discontent with the military collaboration between Tokyo and Washington.
The Typhon missile system is viewed as part of the United States’ modernization efforts for long-range precision strikes. According to an April report from the US Naval Institute, the system adapts existing Raytheon-produced SM-6 missiles and Tomahawk cruise missiles for ground launch purposes. It is described as a truck-based, trailer-loaded system capable of operation in challenging environments. US Colonel Wade Germann commented that the system enhances deterrence against armed attacks, particularly in light of an increasingly severe security landscape surrounding Japan.
The Typhon system had previously been deployed in the northern Philippines in 2024 as part of annual military exercises. This development has drawn ire from Beijing, particularly after Manila announced plans to acquire the system in December, aiming to bolster its maritime interests.
Lin warned that the US deployment of the Typhon system across Asian nations could escalate tensions in the region, heightening the risk of an arms race and military confrontation while undermining regional stability.
