Geopolitical tensions are constantly increasing in many parts of the world, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. Japan’s recent decision has stirred controversy in which it has allowed the United States (US) to deploy “Typhon” intermediate-range missiles on its land. This deployment will be done during joint military exercises to be held next month. Russia and China have seriously objected to this decision and called it a direct threat to regional stability.
Russia’s Strong Reaction
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Friday that this move is part of Washington’s strategy under which it is engaged in increasing the capability of short and medium-range missiles at the ground level.
She clearly said, “We consider this a destabilizing step. The deployment of such missiles poses a direct strategic threat to the areas near Russia.”
Accusations of Militarisation
Russia also accused Japan of rapidly moving towards militarisation and taking its cooperation with the US to a new level. If Japan does not reconsider its decision, Russia will be forced to take “military-technical measures”.
Zakharova also added that if the situation worsens, the entire responsibility will be on Japan. Her statement clearly indicates that Moscow is not taking the matter lightly and the possibility of a military response in the future cannot be ruled out.
China’s Tough Message
China also warned both Japan and the US. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said that the US and Japan should work for peace and stability in the region and not take steps that undermine it.
Guo said, “China always opposes the deployment of America’s Typhoon missile system in Asian countries.” He advised Japan to learn from its past, when it adopted an aggressive stance in Asia during World War II.
Lessons from History
He said that Japan should follow the path of peaceful development, remain vigilant in military and security matters and not lose the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community.
What is America’s Objective and the Typhon System?
According to a Reuters report, the US is working on a plan to deploy various types of anti-ship weapons in Asia and the Typhon missile system is part of that plan.
- Range of Typhon System: The Typhon is a land-based missile system with a range of about 480 kilometers i.e. 300 miles.
- Strategic Reach: If deployed in Japan, it can easily reach many important areas of China and Russia.
- Future Upgrades: The US is also working on a long-range system, which could become a bigger threat in the future.
Previous Protests Over Missile Deployment
This is not the first time that China has protested against such deployment. In 2024, when the US deployed this system in the Philippines for training exercises, Beijing had also lodged strong protests. Despite this, Manila announced plans to buy this American missile system.
Japan’s Role and Deployment Location
A spokesman for Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force told Reuters that the Typhoon system will be deployed at the US Marine Air Station in Iwakuni City on Japan’s Honshu Island. This location is about 890 kilometers west of Tokyo.
It is not yet clear whether these missiles will be tested or launched during the “Resolute Dragon” exercises to be held between September 11 and 25.
Why Are Concerns Increasing?
This decision has worried not only Russia and China but also other countries in the region. Experts believe that the deployment of such weapons can start an arms race. If Russia takes retaliatory steps on its part, tensions in the region may increase further.
Impact on Peace Processes
In addition, this deployment may affect the regional peace process. Japan is already in a dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea. Now the deployment of such missiles can further increase that tension.
Global Impact of the Deployment
The impact of this move will not be limited to the Asia-Pacific region only. It can further deepen the already ongoing geopolitical conflict between the US, Russia and China.
- US Perspective: The US believes that it is necessary to increase its military presence in the region to balance China’s growing influence.
- Russia’s Concerns: Russia is considering it a direct threat to its security.
Experts’ Opinions on Future Risks
Defense experts say that such deployment only gives temporary relief, but gives rise to tension and conflict in the long run. They believe that if the US and Japan really want the security of the region, they should work towards dialogue and trust-building.
Future Scenario and Possible Developments
It is difficult to say right now in which direction the situation will go in the coming months. But it is clear that Russia and China will not take this deployment lightly. If they deploy more weapons near their military bases, it will intensify the arms race in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Rising tensions between global powers in Asia-Pacific
- Potential arms race with unpredictable consequences
- Calls for dialogue and peaceful solutions rather than military escalation
