The United States is preparing backup plans for sending military forces to Japan and the Philippines if a crisis occurs over Taiwan, according to Japan's Kyodo news agency. These plans will be included in the first joint operation strategy, which is set to be developed in December, Kyodo reported on Sunday (Nov 24), citing sources familiar with Japan-US relations.

A US Marine regiment with HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) will be stationed along Japan's Nansei island chain, which stretches from Kyushu to Yonaguni near Taiwan, according to Kyodo. The report also stated that temporary bases will be established on inhabited islands in accordance with US military procedures for sending marines in small formations to many sites if a Taiwan situation becomes imminent. According to the statement, Japan's military is anticipated to mostly provide the maritime unit with logistical support, such as gasoline and ammunition. 

The US Army would send Multi-Domain Task Force long-range fire units to the Philippines, Kyodo said. The defence ministries of Japan and the Philippines could not be reached for comment. The US embassy in Manila also refused to comment.

According to Beijing's foreign ministry, Taiwan is an "inalienable part of China's territory" when questioned about the report on Monday. "China firmly opposes relevant countries using the Taiwan issue as an excuse to strengthen regional military deployment, provoke tension and confrontation and damage regional peace and stability," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said.

China is increasing its military power and putting more pressure on Taiwan, which governs itself. At the same time, the U.S. is building stronger alliances in the region, angering China with frequent deployments of ships and fighter jets in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea.