Beijing has warned that Japanese plans to purchase missile interception and defense systems from the US will compel it to invest in upgrading its own capabilities, which could provoke a wider Asian arms race, the Telegraph reported. Japan said last week it will buy US-made Patriot PAC3 interceptor missiles, which can shoot down incoming ballistic missiles, and increase implementation of the Aegis sea-based defense system also developed by the US. China relies heavily on ballistic missile systems to offset weakness in its conventional forces. "Japan’s new military investments are going to transform the military balance in the region," said a Chinese diplomat. Experts fear that other countries including India and Pakistan might also increase their missile and anti-missile arsenals in response to a Chinese buildup. Anti-missile defense systems also formed part of a US$6.4 billiion arms package sale to Taiwan.
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