Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Tuesday dismissed the opposition of China to the deployment of the United States Typhon missile system to the Philippines. In a statement on Tuesday, Teodoro pointed out that “the deployment of US mid-range missile assets to the Philippines in the context of joint exercises are completely legitimate,

The Philippines says it plans to buy the U.S. Typhon missile system as part of a push to secure its maritime interests, sparking warnings from China of a regional "arms race."

The Typhon missile system has raised tensions between Manila and Beijing after its deployment in US-Philippine military drills.

The Philippines' defence minister on Tuesday justified the country's deployment of a U.S. medium-range missile system and plans to acquire its own, despite opposition from China, a longstanding rival in the South China Sea.

China says a plan by the Philippines to deploy midrange missiles would be a provocative move that stokes regional tensions.

MANILA: The Philippine defence secretary rejected Chinese criticism of Manila's plans to acquire a US-built mid-range missile system, telling Beijing on Tuesday (Dec 24) to stop its "sabre rattling" and "interference" in internal affairs.

China slams move, warning that Philippines risks ‘arms race’ amid increased militarisation of South China Sea.

BEIJING: The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Monday urged the Philippines to withdraw the U.S. mid-range missile system as soon as possible.Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a regular press br

The Philippines said Monday it planned to acquire the US Typhon missile system as part of a push to secure its maritime interests, sparking warnings from China of a regional "arms race".

China has strongly opposed the Philippines' plans to deploy midrange missiles, saying that it will cause regional tensions. China has always been apprehensive of USA's assistance to its neighbour.