What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The U.S. Army has unveiled its mid-range missile system, Typhon, at a base in Japan as part of the annual bilateral exercise Resolute Dragon. This exercise involves over 19,000 U.S. and Japanese troops and focuses on maritime defense and littoral protection. The Typhon system, capable of launching Standard Missile-6 and Tomahawk cruise missiles, was delivered to the U.S. Marine Corps Base in Iwakuni, Japan. This deployment follows its previous deployment in the Philippines, which drew criticism from China and Russia. The exercise is not expected to involve the firing of the Typhon system, and its presence in Japan is temporary, ending with the exercise on September 25.
Why It's Important?
The deployment of the Typhon missile system in Japan signifies a strategic move by the U.S. and Japan to bolster their defense capabilities in response to China's growing military assertiveness in the region. This development is part of Japan's broader military buildup, which includes enhancing its strike-back capabilities with mid- to long-range missiles. The presence of such advanced weaponry in Japan is likely to heighten tensions with China, which has been expanding its military presence in the East China Sea. The move also underscores the U.S.'s commitment to its allies in the Asia-Pacific region, reinforcing its strategic partnerships amid regional security challenges.
What's Next?
The conclusion of the Resolute Dragon exercise on September 25 will see the withdrawal of the Typhon system from Japan. However, the ongoing military buildup and strategic deployments in the region suggest that the U.S. and its allies will continue to enhance their defense postures. This could lead to further diplomatic tensions with China and Russia, who have criticized these military maneuvers. The situation may prompt additional military exercises or deployments as the U.S. and its allies seek to maintain a balance of power in the region.
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