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 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.