US soldiers reworked new missile system during drills in the Pacific

US troops deployed to the Pacific modified the Typhon missile system, also known as the Mid-Range Capability (MRC), during exercises in the Philippines. Soldiers implemented improvements such as reducing reload times and minimizing stress on components. One key change involved repositioning access points on the launcher trailer to ease reloading and maintenance. These updates were based on field feedback collected during and after the joint US-Philippines deployment.
The US Army Pacific described it as a “landmark deployment,” marking the system’s first overseas use and enhancing cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The MRC can launch both the Standard Missile 6 and the Tomahawk, offering a flexible, long-range solution to a critical gap in the US military capabilities. Although the system was not fired during the exercise, its mere presence sparked diplomatic tensions. China strongly opposed the deployment, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian saying it threatened regional security and encouraged confrontation. Philippine officials confirmed that Beijing expressed concerns, calling the situation “dramatic.”
The MRC was developed after Russia violated the INF Treaty by deploying missiles with prohibited ranges, such as the SSC-8.
Military leaders now emphasize integrating soldier feedback early in weapons development, as demonstrated in both the Pacific and Ukrainian conflicts.