The United States had raised concerns with China about its latest militarisation of the South China Sea (SCS) and there would be near-term and long-term consequences, the White House said on Thursday.
US news network CNBC reported on Wednesday that China had installed anti-ship cruise missiles and surface-to-air missile systems on three outposts in the SCS. It cited sources with direct knowledge of US intelligence.
Asked about the report, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told a regular news briefing: “Were well aware of Chinas militarisation of the South China Sea. Weve raised concerns directly with the Chinese about this and there will be near-term and long-term consequences.”
Ms. Sanders did not say what the consequences might be.
A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said US intelligence had seen some signs that China had moved some weapons systems to the Spratly Islands in the past month or so, but offered no details.
CNBC quoted unnamed sources as saying that according to US intelligence assessments, the missiles were moved to Fiery Cross Reef, Subi Reef and Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands within the past 30 days.
They would be the first Chinese missile deployments in the Spratlys, where several Asian countries including Vietnam and Taiwan have rival claims.
China’s Defence Ministry did not respond to a request for comment. Its Foreign Ministry said China has irrefutable sovereignty over the Spratlys and that necessary defensive deployments were for national security needs and not aimed at any country.
“Those who do not intend to be aggressive have no need to be worried or scared,” Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.