China says a plan by the Philippines to deploy midrange missiles would be a provocative move that stokes regional tensions.

The Philippines' defence minister on Tuesday justified the country's deployment of a U.S. medium-range missile system and plans to acquire its own, despite opposition from China, a longstanding rival in the South China Sea.

The Philippines said Monday it planned to acquire the US Typhon missile system as part of a push to secure its maritime interests, sparking warnings from China of a regional "arms race".

China has strongly opposed the Philippines' plans to deploy midrange missiles, saying that it will cause regional tensions. China has always been apprehensive of USA's assistance to its neighbour.

BEIJING: The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Monday urged the Philippines to withdraw the U.S. mid-range missile system as soon as possible.Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a regular press br

China has criticized the Philippines' decision to acquire the U.S.-made Typhon missile system, citing regional security concerns. The move comes amid heightened tensions between Manila and Beijing over disputed waters in the South China Sea.