China’s New Submarine Could Threaten U.S. Missile Defenses in the Philippines Amid Rising Tensions

China’s newest attack submarine could be a game-changer in its ongoing strategic contest with the United States in the Indo-Pacific. According to a recent report in a Chinese military-affiliated publication, the submarine is being designed to counter America’s medium-range missile defense systems, particularly those stationed in the Philippines.

The report, published by Naval & Merchant Ships, a magazine linked to the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), suggests that this advanced submarine might be equipped with hypersonic missiles. These high-speed projectiles could potentially bypass enemy defenses and launch surprise strikes on key U.S. military assets. If true, this would significantly alter the balance of power in the region, as such a weapon system could make American missile defenses more vulnerable to attack.

China’s strategic goal appears to be forcing adversaries—including the U.S. and its allies—to spread out their forces, making them easier to target. The new submarine, when operating alongside other assets of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, could complicate U.S. military operations in the South China Sea and beyond. However, Beijing has yet to officially confirm the existence of such a submarine.

A Response to U.S. Missile Deployment in the Philippines

This development comes against the backdrop of the United States deploying Typhon missile systems in the Philippines. The Typhon system, a key component of America’s air defense strategy in the Indo-Pacific, has been placed in Manila as part of Washington’s efforts to counter growing Chinese assertiveness. This deployment has not gone unnoticed in Beijing, which has repeatedly opposed any U.S. military expansion in the region.

The South China Sea remains a flashpoint, with China and the Philippines clashing over territorial claims. Manila has accused Beijing of escalating tensions through maritime confrontations, including vessel collisions and the use of water cannons against Philippine ships. The addition of U.S. missile defenses in the Philippines has further fueled diplomatic and military tensions, prompting strong reactions from China.

China Warns of Retaliation

China’s Foreign Ministry has issued a clear warning regarding the presence of U.S. missile systems in the Philippines. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated in a recent briefing that China “will not sit idly by” while its security interests are threatened. He also urged the Philippines to reconsider its military ties with the U.S. and make “a strategic choice” that prioritizes its own long-term stability.

This message underscores Beijing’s frustration with Manila’s growing military cooperation with Washington. China has long viewed U.S. military activity in the region as an attempt to contain its influence, and the deployment of Typhon missiles only adds to these concerns.

Philippines Responds with a Challenge to China

Amid this escalating tension, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has made a striking statement. He suggested that his country would consider withdrawing the Typhon missile system if China agrees to stop its aggressive actions in the disputed maritime region.

“Let’s make a deal with China: Stop claiming our territory, stop harassing our fishermen, stop ramming our boats … and I’ll return the Typhon missiles,” Marcos stated.

His remarks highlight the delicate balancing act the Philippines must navigate between strengthening its military alliance with the U.S. and managing its turbulent relationship with China. While Manila seeks security assurances from Washington, it also wants to avoid provoking a direct military confrontation with Beijing.

A Shifting Military Landscape in the Indo-Pacific

The possibility of China developing a submarine capable of targeting U.S. missile defenses represents a significant shift in the military landscape of the Indo-Pacific. If Beijing’s claims are accurate, the introduction of such an advanced weapon system could change how the U.S. and its allies approach regional security. The new submarine could limit the effectiveness of American missile defenses and force a reevaluation of current military strategies.

At the same time, the U.S. and the Philippines remain firm in their commitment to maintaining a strong deterrent against Chinese aggression. Washington has repeatedly reaffirmed its support for Manila, emphasizing that any attack on Philippine forces in the South China Sea would trigger its mutual defense treaty obligations.

With China flexing its military muscle and the U.S. strengthening its regional alliances, tensions in the Indo-Pacific are likely to remain high. Whether diplomacy can defuse this volatile situation or if military posturing will lead to greater confrontation remains an open question.