South China Sea missiles will spur military build-up

Subject

Chinese ballistic missile tests in the South China Sea.

Significance

China launched suspected anti-ship ballistic missiles into a disputed area of the South China Sea during training exercises between June 29 and July 3.

Impacts

• Washington will try to reassure allies and third countries of its commitment as a counterweight to China in the region.
• Ongoing militarisation will motivate the reinforcement of other claimant states’ positions.
• The missile tests will accelerate US development of similar ‘area denial’ capabilities with which to threaten China’s navy.