Russia Condemns US-Japan Typhon Missile Deployment as Threat to Regional Security

Moscow has strongly criticized plans for the United States to deploy Typhon missile systems to Japan, describing the move as a direct threat to Russian interests and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova made the statement at a briefing on May 28, warning that the deployment of intermediate and shorter-range missile systems would create security risks along Russia's far-eastern borders, regardless of whether the deployment is occasional, rotational, or permanent.

Zakharova emphasized that Russia views Japan's decision to host these systems as a deliberate and hostile move that disregards Russian national interests. The deployment is scheduled to occur during joint US-Japan military exercises planned for June through September, with Typhon systems set to be stationed at the Japanese Self-Defense Forces' Kanoya Air Base in Kagoshima Prefecture. The exercises will also include the deployment of HIMARS rocket launchers.

In response to what it characterizes as provocative actions, Russia indicated it would reassess its strategic posture. Zakharova stressed that Moscow no longer considers itself bound by a moratorium on deploying land-based intermediate and shorter-range missiles, which Russia had previously announced in August 2025. The Foreign Ministry stated it would conduct a careful assessment of the strategic risks posed by the US-Japan military activities and would develop what it described as appropriate long-term compensatory military and technical measures.

The Russian response reflects escalating tensions between Moscow and the US-Japan alliance over military capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. Japan's decision to host the advanced missile systems marks a significant expansion of US military presence in the region and comes amid broader concerns about regional security dynamics involving Russia and China.