The United States plans to deploy additional advanced missile systems to the Philippines to deter potential aggression in the South China Sea, amid growing tensions with China.

U.S. and Philippine officials condemned Beijing’s “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive activities” and outlined joint defense plans, including military exercises and support for Philippine military modernization.

China has protested previous U.S. deployments, including the Typhon mid-range missile system in northern Luzon in 2024 and an anti-ship launcher last year, but the Philippines has rejected these demands.

The missile systems, capable of firing Tomahawk and Standard Missile-6 weapons, aim to strengthen deterrence and familiarize Filipino forces with advanced capabilities, the AP has reported.

The deployments come as disputes over strategic waterways, involving multiple regional actors, continue to challenge regional security and trade routes.