Rumsfeld said that China’s military modernization is “perfectly appropriate,” yet improving its strategic strike capabilities—in particular long-range missiles—“gives us questions.” Apparently eager to assuage any concerns, the Chinese took Rumsfeld to the headquarters of its Strategic Rocket Forces. It was the first time, said Chinese officials, that foreign visitors had been allowed in the compound.
The emphasis on speed in the Pentagon’s newly unveiled slate of acquisition reforms may come with increased near-term cost increases, analysts say. But according to U.S. defense officials, the new weapons-buying construct provides the military with enough flexibility to prevent runaway budget overruns in major programs.
