China Warns Australia Against Defence Spending Increase Amid US Pressure

China's missile capabilities, particularly through the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF), are seen as a growing threat to U.S. bases and allies in the Asia-Pacific, with advanced missile systems potentially surpassing U.S. technology, especially in areas like hypersonic 'carrier killer' missiles. In response to U.S. and NATO calls for Australia to increase defense spending, China's Ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has urged Australia not to be incited by external pressures and warned against raising military budgets, citing the potential economic burden and emphasizing the need for cooperation to safeguard regional maritime security. Xiao Qian highlighted the importance of the trade relationship between China and Australia and characterized China's military build-up as normal, with defense spending at 1.5 percent of its GDP. The Australian Prime Minister faces domestic and international pressure, particularly from the U.S., to boost defense investments amid these regional security concerns. China's position reflects a broader diplomatic effort to dissuade Australia from aligning too closely with U.S. military strategies in the region. This dynamic underscores the tension between maintaining economic ties with China and responding to strategic security challenges posed by China's military advancements.