The introduction of the U.S. mid-range missile system by the Philippines is a provocative and perilous move, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian on Thursday at a press briefing in Beijing.
Lin made the comments in response to reports that the Philippine military said it plans to buy the Typhon missile system that the U.S. brought to the country earlier this year in the name of military exercises. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro also confirmed the country's intent to "acquire capabilities of such sort."
"China has repeatedly made its firm opposition clear regarding the U.S. deployment of mid-range missile system in the Philippines. I'd like to stress once again that the Philippines' introduction of this strategic and offensive weapon is a provocative and perilous move in collusion with external forces to create regional tension, stoke geopolitical confrontation, and trigger arms races. It is an irresponsible choice for both the Philippines and the people of Southeast Asia, as well as for history and regional security," said Lin.
"The region needs peace and prosperity, not intermediate missile and confrontation. We once again urge the Philippine side to heed the call of countries and peoples in the region, correct its wrongdoings as soon as possible, deliver on its previous public commitment to promptly remove the Typhon mid-range missile system, and stop going further down the wrong path," said the spokesman.
Philippines' introduction of mid-range missile system provocative, perilous: spokesman
Philippines' introduction of mid-range missile system provocative, perilous: spokesman
Philippines' introduction of mid-range missile system provocative, perilous: spokesman
The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, which opened Tuesday in Zhuhai City of south China's Guangdong Province, showcases several advanced liquid-propellant rocket engines that promise to shape the future of space exploration.
Among the highlights is an 80-ton reusable liquid oxygen-methane engine, which stands out for its economic viability and potential for extensive application in reusable rocket designs. The efficiency of methane positions this engine as a pivotal component for future space missions.
"This engine's most significant feature is its complete reusability, with a capability of at least 50 uses. It has successfully gone through various development tests and is now ready for flight," said Song Dekun from China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
The 80-ton liquid oxygen-methane engine is tailored for the burgeoning commercial space market, offering substantial thrust while being engineered for reusability. Next to it, another engine designed for commercial space endeavors is on display - a high-altitude engine utilizing liquid oxygen and kerosene as fuel.
"It has a thrust of 72 tons and will be used in the rocket's second stage. The first stage carries the rocket to altitudes of 50 to 60 kilometers, and the second stage operates from there up to 200 kilometers and even into low Earth orbit, where it must ignite in near-vacuum conditions, requiring precise ignition capabilities," said Liu Shang from China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
Liu added that this engine is delivery-ready and is projected to undertake its inaugural flight in 2025, further solidifying China's position in the global aerospace landscape.
Popularly known as the Zhuhai Airshow, the premier aviation event has attracted 1,022 companies from 47 countries and regions this year, with Russia, France, the United States, Saudi Arabia and Italy participating in the air show in groups. The airshow is scheduled to last through Sunday.
Cutting-edge liquid-propellant rocket engines at Zhuhai Airshow to benefit future space travel
