China Demands Withdrawal of US Typhon Missile in Japan

Japan and the United States revealed the US-developed Typhon missile system during their joint military exercises named Resolute Dragon. This marked the first time the missile system was showcased on Japanese soil. The drills began in mid-September and will continue until the 25th. China responded with strong objections, urging both countries to withdraw the missile system immediately.

Typhon Missile System Overview

The Typhon missile system is a truck-based, trailer-loaded platform designed for ground launch. It uses modified Raytheon-produced SM-6 and Tomahawk cruise missiles. The system forms part of the US Army’s long-range precision strike modernisation efforts. It is designed to operate in rugged and austere environments, enhancing mobility and deployment flexibility.

Japan-US Military Exercises

The Resolute Dragon exercises involve coordinated drills between Japan’s Self-Defence Forces and the US military. The Typhon system was displayed but not fired during these drills. Japan views the deployment as a necessary deterrent amid an increasingly severe regional security environment. The missile system was earlier deployed in the northern Philippines during joint exercises in 2024.

China’s Response and Concerns

China’s Foreign Ministry expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the deployment. Beijing accused the US and Japan of ignoring China’s solemn concerns. China demands the missile system’s prompt withdrawal, viewing its deployment as a threat to regional stability. The issue marks ongoing tensions over military presence and strategic balance in East Asia.

Strategic Implications for East Asia

The introduction of the Typhon missile system in Japan signals a shift in regional defence postures. It reflects efforts by the US and Japan to counter perceived threats, particularly from China’s growing military capabilities. This deployment may prompt further military modernisation and strategic realignments among regional actors. The situation puts stress on the fragile security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.

Technical and Tactical Features

Typhon leverages existing missile technologies but adapts them for ground launch, increasing operational versatility. Its mobility allows rapid repositioning to respond to threats. The system’s long-range precision strike capability enhances deterrence by extending reach and accuracy. These features contribute to a layered defence strategy for Japan and its allies.

Regional Security and Diplomacy

The deployment has intensified diplomatic friction between China, Japan, and the US. It raises questions about arms control and confidence-building measures in the region. The incident illustrates the challenges of balancing military preparedness with diplomatic engagement. It also marks the importance of dialogue to manage disputes and avoid escalation.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Point out the strategic significance of missile defence systems in maintaining regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
2. Underline the role of joint military exercises in strengthening bilateral defence cooperation with suitable examples.
3. Critically analyse the impact of military modernisation on regional stability in East Asia with reference to China, Japan, and the United States.
4. Estimate the challenges posed by emerging missile technologies to existing arms control frameworks and suggest measures to address them.

Answer Hints:

1. Point out the strategic significance of missile defence systems in maintaining regional security in the Indo-Pacific.

1. Missile defence systems enhance deterrence by providing a credible response to potential attacks.
2. They contribute to maintaining a balance of power amid rising military capabilities in the region.
3. Systems like Typhon improve early warning and interception capabilities against missile threats.
4. They support allied security frameworks, strengthening collective defence in the Indo-Pacific.
5. Deployment signals commitment to regional stability and protection of sovereignty.
6. They help counter asymmetric threats and deter coercive actions by rival states.

2. Underline the role of joint military exercises in strengthening bilateral defence cooperation with suitable examples.

1. Joint exercises enhance interoperability between allied forces, improving coordinated responses.
2. They facilitate sharing of tactics, technology, and intelligence, boosting operational readiness.
3. Examples – Japan-US Resolute Dragon drills showcasing Typhon missile system deployment.
4. Exercises build mutual trust and demonstrate political commitment to defence partnerships.
5. They act as a deterrent by signaling military capability and resolve to potential adversaries.
6. Joint drills also allow testing and refinement of new weapons and systems in realistic scenarios.

3. Critically analyse the impact of military modernisation on regional stability in East Asia with reference to China, Japan, and the United States.

1. Military modernisation drives an arms race, increasing tensions and mistrust in the region.
2. It can destabilize regional security by prompting reactive deployments and countermeasures.
3. Modernisation improves defence capabilities, enhancing deterrence and national security.
4. China’s growing military assertiveness fuels Japan-US efforts to upgrade their defence posture.
5. However, it risks miscalculation and escalation in crisis situations.
6. Calls for balancing modernisation with diplomatic engagement and confidence-building measures.

4. Estimate the challenges posed by emerging missile technologies to existing arms control frameworks and suggest measures to address them.

1. New missile systems like Typhon challenge verification and monitoring under current arms control treaties.
2. Technological advancements enable longer ranges, greater precision, and mobility, complicating control efforts.
3. Existing frameworks may lack provisions for ground-launched cruise missiles and hybrid missile types.
4. Challenges include risk of arms race, reduced transparency, and difficulty in enforcing compliance.
5. Measures – updating treaties, enhancing transparency, confidence-building, and multilateral dialogues.
6. Promoting regional arms control agreements specific to emerging missile technologies is essential.