US Pentagon flags China’s 3,150 missile arsenal in Indo‑Pacific security brief

The U.S. Pentagon estimates that China’s ballistic‑missile inventory now totals about 3,150 missiles – 900 short‑range, 1,300 medium‑range, 550 intermediate‑range and 400 intercontinental – despite a slowing economy. China’s announced 2024 defence budget of $231 billion may underestimate total spending, which Pentagon analysts say could reach $304‑$377 billion. The buildup is intended to create “saturation” and “persistence” across the Indo‑Pacific, allowing Beijing to impose high costs on rivals without a full‑scale war.

U.S. officials warn that such numbers could cripple forward bases, with analyses suggesting Chinese missile strikes could shut Japanese airfields for about 12 days and Guam’s for up to two days. In response, the United States is accelerating its missile‑defence posture, including a $407 million Aegis‑Guam upgrade and broader alliance strengthening. General William Parker, commander of the 94th Air and Missile Defense Command, highlighted the “radical evolution” of air defence required to counter both Chinese and North Korean modernisation.