A new report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies has raised alarm over the state of U.S. missile stockpiles following the Iran conflict. Analysts warn that key weapons systems, including Patriot and THAAD interceptors, have been heavily depleted and could take years to fully replenish. The report says the war exposed major weaknesses in America’s defence supply chain at a time of growing tensions with China, Russia and ongoing commitments in Ukraine and the Middle East.


CSIS Report Claims US Needs At Least 3 Years to Rebuild Missile Stocks

The conflict with Iran is significantly draining U.S. missile stocks, specifically high-end interceptors like THAAD and Patriot missiles, and precision-guided weapons like Tomahawk cruise missiles. Production capacity is struggling to keep pace with the high consumption rate, causing concern among officials about maintaining readiness for other global priorities.


US-Iran War | Reports: Pentagon Flags Low Tomahawk Missile Stocks

A massive security crisis is unfolding in Israel after the US-made THAAD system failed to intercept an Iranian missile targeting the Dimona nuclear facility on Saturday. An initial inquiry suggests the interception was missed. We break down the world's most advanced defence system and why it failed when it mattered most.


Iran Hits Israel's 'Nuclear Site'| THAAD Fails at Dimona | Israel Orders Probe

Gulf nations are countering Iran's Shahed drone barrages using heavy machine guns, helicopters, and fighter jets. Adopting Ukraine's tactics helps destroy the 185kph drones without wasting expensive $12 million THAAD interceptor missiles.


‘Middle East conflict’: How Gulf nations are countering and defeating Iran’s Shahed drones

The United States has reportedly begun relocating parts of its missile defence systems from South Korea to the Middle East as the conflict with Iran intensifies. The move includes components of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system that had been stationed on the Korean Peninsula.


US-Iran War: US Moves Missile Defences From South Korea, Seoul Claims Security Intact 

From Russia's S-400 Triumph to America's THAAD, here's a look at the top six air defense systems in the world. This list also includes these air defense systems - David’s Sling, S-300VM, MIM-104 Patriot and HQ-9.

From Russia's S-400 Triumph to America's THAAD: Top 6 air defense systems in the world

Adding a new dimension to the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, US has made a big announcement saying it will deploy its high altitude anti-missile system in Israel. US has said it will send THAAD and its US military crew to Israel. Watch to know more.

US To Send THAAD System And Combat Troops To Israel

Adding a new dimension to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, US has made a big announcement saying it will deploy its high altitude anti-missile system in Israel. US has said it will send THAAD and its US military crew to Israel. Watch to know more.

THAAD deployment in Israel: New Defence System To Add To Israel's Arsenal

All You Need To Know About Israel's New American Shield 'THAAD'

The US Military will deploy a sophisticated missile defense system, with crew of US Military operators, to bolster Israel's defenses ahead of a potential new ballistic missile attack from Iran, the pentagon said Sunday.

U.S. To Send 'THAAD' Missile System to Israel

The US will send the THAAD anti-missile system and 100 troops to Israel, which is widely thought to be preparing a response to Iran for its missile attacks on the Jewish country earlier this month, even as it fights Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.

The THAAD is a storied missile defence system known for its ability to intercept ballistic missiles. It will boost the already dominant Iron Dome missile defence system of Israel.&nbsp;

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin authorised the deployment of the THAAD battery at the direction of President Joe Biden, said Pentagon spokesperson Maj Gen Pat Ryder in a statement on Sunday (Oct 13). Biden said in Florida on Sunday that he agreed to the deployment “to defend Israel.”&nbsp;

WATCH: US To Send 'THAAD' Missile Battery To Israel

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<h2>What is THAAD? What are its capabilities? </h2>

THAAD stands for Terminal High Altitude Area Defense.&nbsp;THAAD is one of the most advanced missile defence systems of the US.

It is an integrated air and missile defence system built for the US Army&nbsp;by Lockheed Martin, which describes THAAD as a 'highly effective, combat-proven defence against short, medium and intermediate-range ballistic missile threats.'

THAAD is the only US defence system that can intercept incoming missiles from outside and inside the atmosphere.&nbsp;

The US currently has seven THAAD batteries. An eighth system is being built and will be field-ready in 2025.

Each THAAD battery has&nbsp;six launchers mounted on trucks, 48 missile interceptors, as well as radio and radar systems. It takes 95 soldiers to operate one THAAD battery.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-crisis-us-thaad-vs-russian-s-400-missile-defence-system-451457/ukraine-sends-request-to-us-for-thaad-451451">Also read: Ukraine crisis: US THAAD vs Russian S-400 missile defence system</a>

THAAD can intercept targets up to 200 kilometres away. It mainly intercepts and destroys short-range, medium-range and limited intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

THAAD is operated by the US Army, and the US&nbsp;Missile Defense Agency is responsible for the system. 
 
Highly mobile and deployable worldwide, THAAD can defend population centres and infrastructure in the area of operation. It is interoperable with&nbsp; 
other ballistic missile defence systems like the Patriot system of the US.

<h2>How will the war in Middle East change after THAAD deployment?</h2>

Israel, fighting a multifront war in the Middle East, will get a boost from THAAD as both Hamas and Hezbollah have been firing rockets and missiles across the border.

Israel&nbsp;had done a ground invasion of Lebanon in response to Hezbollah's rocket attacks. It&nbsp;is thought to be preparing a counterstrike against Iran which had dropped up to 180 missiles on October 1, soon after Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Iran-backed group Hezbollah, was killed by Israel in Lebanon.

The US has been pressing Israel to spare the nuclear and energy facilities of Iran, given the potential ramifications for the global economy.

Iran has already warned the US against sending its military to the region.

The presence of THAAD and the US troops will add more fire to the conflict and risk an all-out-war despite diplomatic efforts to contain the tensions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-israels-iron-dome-missile-defence-system-intercepts-rockets-fired-by-hamas-384586">Also read: How Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system intercepts rockets fired by Hamas</a> 
 
Last year after the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel, the US deployed a THAAD battery to the Middle East, in addition to the Patriot defence system to protect American military assets in the region.

In 2019, the US had sent a THAAD battery to Israel for training purposes, Ryder said.

Israel earlier had the American Patriot defence system for a decade, which has been retired recently.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US will send the THAAD anti-missile system and 100 troops to Israel, which is widely thought to be preparing a response to Iran for its missile attacks on the Jewish country earlier this month, even as it fights Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.

The US will send the THAAD anti-missile system and 100 troops to Israel, which is widely thought to be preparing a response to Iran for its missile attacks on the Jewish country earlier this month, even as it fights Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. The THAAD is a storied missile defence system known for its ability to intercept ballistic missiles. It will boost the already dominant Iron Dome missile defence system of Israel. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin authorised the deployment of the THAAD battery at the direction of President Joe Biden, said Pentagon spokesperson Maj Gen Pat Ryder in a statement on Sunday (Oct 13). Biden said in Florida on Sunday that he agreed to the deployment “to defend Israel.” WATCH: US To Send 'THAAD' Missile Battery To Israel × What is THAAD? What are its capabilities? THAAD stands for Terminal High Altitude Area Defense. THAAD is one of the most advanced missile defence systems of the US. It is an integrated air and missile defence system built for the US Army by Lockheed Martin, which describes THAAD as a 'highly effective, combat-proven defence against short, medium and intermediate-range ballistic missile threats.' THAAD is the only US defence system that can intercept incoming missiles from outside and inside the atmosphere. The US currently has seven THAAD batteries. An eighth system is being built and will be field-ready in 2025. Each THAAD battery has six launchers mounted on trucks, 48 missile interceptors, as well as radio and radar systems. It takes 95 soldiers to operate one THAAD battery. Also read: Ukraine crisis: US THAAD vs Russian S-400 missile defence system THAAD can intercept targets up to 200 kilometres away. It mainly intercepts and destroys short-range, medium-range and limited intermediate-range ballistic missiles. THAAD is operated by the US Army, and the US Missile Defense Agency is responsible for the system. Highly mobile and deployable worldwide, THAAD can defend population centres and infrastructure in the area of operation. It is interoperable with other ballistic missile defence systems like the Patriot system of the US. How will the war in Middle East change after THAAD deployment? Israel, fighting a multifront war in the Middle East, will get a boost from THAAD as both Hamas and Hezbollah have been firing rockets and missiles across the border. Israel had done a ground invasion of Lebanon in response to Hezbollah's rocket attacks. It is thought to be preparing a counterstrike against Iran which had dropped up to 180 missiles on October 1, soon after Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Iran-backed group Hezbollah, was killed by Israel in Lebanon. The US has been pressing Israel to spare the nuclear and energy facilities of Iran, given the potential ramifications for the global economy. Iran has already warned the US against sending its military to the region. The presence of THAAD and the US troops will add more fire to the conflict and risk an all-out-war despite diplomatic efforts to contain the tensions. Also read: How Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system intercepts rockets fired by Hamas Last year after the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel, the US deployed a THAAD battery to the Middle East, in addition to the Patriot defence system to protect American military assets in the region. In 2019, the US had sent a THAAD battery to Israel for training purposes, Ryder said. Israel earlier had the American Patriot defence system for a decade, which has been retired recently. (With inputs from agencies)

US to send THAAD to Israel. What you should know about this powerful missile defence system

Big announcement by US as tensions escalate in West Asia. US will be sending THAAD and Troops to Israel. Watch to know more.

Breaking: US To Deploy High-Altitude Anti-Missile System In Israel

The deployment of the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system to South Korea has seriously undermined the strategic balance in the region, a white paper on China's national defence revealed, according to Russia-based Sputnik News.

"The United States reinforces its alliances in the Asia-Pacific region, expands military presence and intervention in the region, thus complicating the regional security ... the deployment of the US THAAD missile systems to South Korea has seriously undermined the strategic regional balance and strategic security interests of regional countries," Sputnik News quoted from the paper on Wednesday.

Washington and Seoul agreed to the THAAD battery deployment in July, 2017, in the wake of a string of North Korean missile tests. Installed on a former golf course in the southern county of Seongju, the THAAD system is designed to intercept and destroy short and medium-range ballistic missiles during their final phase of flight.

THAAD's deployment in South Korea has infuriated China, which fears it will weaken its own ballistic missile capabilities. Beijing has imposed a host of measures seen as economic retaliation against the South for the THAAD deployment, including a ban on tour groups.

The THAAD system is built by Lockheed Martin Corp with a powerful Raytheon Co AN/TPY-2 radar, to shootdown short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. Raytheon, another US firm, builds its advanced radar.

In March, the US deployed its most advanced air and missile defence system to Israel for the first time

The deployment of the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system to South Korea has seriously undermined the strategic balance in the region, a white paper on China's national defence revealed, according to Russia-based Sputnik News.

The deployment of the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system to South Korea has seriously undermined the strategic balance in the region, a white paper on China's national defence revealed, according to Russia-based Sputnik News. "The United States reinforces its alliances in the Asia-Pacific region, expands military presence and intervention in the region, thus complicating the regional security ... the deployment of the US THAAD missile systems to South Korea has seriously undermined the strategic regional balance and strategic security interests of regional countries," Sputnik News quoted from the paper on Wednesday. Washington and Seoul agreed to the THAAD battery deployment in July, 2017, in the wake of a string of North Korean missile tests. Installed on a former golf course in the southern county of Seongju, the THAAD system is designed to intercept and destroy short and medium-range ballistic missiles during their final phase of flight. THAAD's deployment in South Korea has infuriated China, which fears it will weaken its own ballistic missile capabilities. Beijing has imposed a host of measures seen as economic retaliation against the South for the THAAD deployment, including a ban on tour groups. The THAAD system is built by Lockheed Martin Corp with a powerful Raytheon Co AN/TPY-2 radar, to shootdown short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. Raytheon, another US firm, builds its advanced radar. In March, the US deployed its most advanced air and missile defence system to Israel for the first time

US THAAD system deployment to South Korea undermines regional strategic balance, says China

India today successfully <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agni-v-test-fired-successfully-10-things-about-the-nuclear-capable-missile-29955">test-fired&nbsp;</a>short-range nuclear-capable Agni-I ballistic missile from a&nbsp;test range off Odisha coast.

The indigenously developed surface-to-surface missile was launched as a part of a periodic training activity by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of the Army to consolidate operational readiness.

The state-of-the-art missile was launched around 8:30 am from a mobile launcher at Pad 4 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at the Dr Abdul Kalam Island, formerly known as Wheeler Island.

Last month India had test-fired surface-to-surface nuclear-capable Agni-V missile from the integrated test range at Abdul Kalam island off Odisha coast.

Agni-V missile is said to be India&#39;s most advanced missile in the Agni series with a range of 5000 kilometres.

It can carry nuclear warhead of about 1.5 tonnes. The first test of Agni-5 was conducted on April 19, 2012.

Agni-V subsequent tests took place on September 15, 2013, January 31, 2015, and on December 26, 2016 from the same base. The ballistic missile is capable of launching small satellites.

Describing the trial a &quot;complete success&quot;, Defence sources told PTI, adding that all the &quot;mission objectives&quot; were met during the test.

&quot;The trajectory of the trial was tracked by a battery of sophisticated radars, telemetry observation stations, electro-optic instruments and naval ships right from its launch till the missile hit the target area with pin point accuracy,&quot; the sources told PTI.

The sophisticated Agni-I missile is propelled by a solid rocket propellant system and is equipped with a specialised navigation system that ensures it reaches the target with a high degree of precision, they said.

Weighing around 12 tonnes, the 15-metre-long Agni-I can carry payloads up to 1,000 kg and is capable of hitting a target beyond 700 km. The missile is also capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

India today successfully test-fired short-range nuclear-capable Agni-I ballistic missile from a test range off Odisha coast. The indigenously developed surface-to-surface missile was launched as a part of a periodic training activity by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of the Army to consolidate operational readiness. The state-of-the-art missile was launched around 8:30 am from a mobile launcher at Pad 4 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at the Dr Abdul Kalam Island, formerly known as Wheeler Island. Last month India had test-fired surface-to-surface nuclear-capable Agni-V missile from the integrated test range at Abdul Kalam island off Odisha coast. Agni-V missile is said to be India's most advanced missile in the Agni series with a range of 5000 kilometres. It can carry nuclear warhead of about 1.5 tonnes. The first test of Agni-5 was conducted on April 19, 2012. Agni-V subsequent tests took place on September 15, 2013, January 31, 2015, and on December 26, 2016 from the same base. The ballistic missile is capable of launching small satellites. Describing the trial a "complete success", Defence sources told PTI, adding that all the "mission objectives" were met during the test. "The trajectory of the trial was tracked by a battery of sophisticated radars, telemetry observation stations, electro-optic instruments and naval ships right from its launch till the missile hit the target area with pin point accuracy," the sources told PTI. The sophisticated Agni-I missile is propelled by a solid rocket propellant system and is equipped with a specialised navigation system that ensures it reaches the target with a high degree of precision, they said. Weighing around 12 tonnes, the 15-metre-long Agni-I can carry payloads up to 1,000 kg and is capable of hitting a target beyond 700 km. The missile is also capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

India successfully test-fires nuclear-capable Agni-I missile

China today successfully conducted a land-based missile interception test.

The test of interception technology was conducted on Monday within China&#39;s territory and achieved preset goal, said China&#39;s ministry of National Defense.

The test is defensive and does not target any country, said the ministry.

The ministry provided on other detail.

China had reportedly conducted two tests last year of &quot;hypersonic glide vehicle&quot;, or HGV.

HGVs are unmanned aircrafts which glide through the earth&#39;s atmosphere at high speeds. China, defence experts believe wants to position the HGVs against the US THAAD anti-ballistic missile defense system which shoots down a missile at the descent or reentry state.

China and Russia have repeatedly expressed opposition to the deployment of THAAD anti-missile system in South Korea.

Chinese state media said the country has been conducting anti-missile system tests since 2010.&nbsp;

China had reportedly conducted two tests last year of "hypersonic glide vehicle", or HGV

China today successfully conducted a land-based missile interception test. The test of interception technology was conducted on Monday within China's territory and achieved preset goal, said China's ministry of National Defense. The test is defensive and does not target any country, said the ministry. The ministry provided on other detail. China had reportedly conducted two tests last year of "hypersonic glide vehicle", or HGV. HGVs are unmanned aircrafts which glide through the earth's atmosphere at high speeds. China, defence experts believe wants to position the HGVs against the US THAAD anti-ballistic missile defense system which shoots down a missile at the descent or reentry state. China and Russia have repeatedly expressed opposition to the deployment of THAAD anti-missile system in South Korea. Chinese state media said the country has been conducting anti-missile system tests since 2010.

Now, China successfully conducts 'missile interception' test

South Korea and China have agreed to work swiftly to get their relations back on track following a year-long standoff over the deployment of a controversial US&nbsp;anti-missile system in South Korea.

The installation of the US&nbsp;Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system had angered China and spilled over into trade, hurting South Korean business interests in the country.

China believed the system&rsquo;s powerful radar could be used to look inside its territory. South Korea and the United States have repeatedly said THAAD only serves to defend against the growing missile threat from North Korea.

&#39;Both sides shared the view that the strengthening of exchange and cooperation between Korea and China serves their common interests and agreed to expeditiously bring exchange and cooperation in all areas back on a normal development track,&#39; South Korea&rsquo;s foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.

&#39;South Korea&rsquo;s President Moon Jae-in will meet with China&rsquo;s President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of an upcoming summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries in Vietnam on November&nbsp;10-11.&#39;&nbsp;South Korea&rsquo;s presidential office said.

The two heads of state are likely to discuss North Korea&rsquo;s missile and nuclear programme as well as ways to develop bilateral ties, a senior South Korean presidential Blue House official later told reporters, declining to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Pyongyang has undertaken an unprecedented missile testing programme in recent months, as well as its biggest nuclear test yet in early September, as it seeks to develop a powerful nuclear weapon capable of reaching the United States.

The moves have angered China, North Korea&rsquo;s only major ally, and drawn further tough sanctions from the United Nations and the United States.

The recent deterioration in ties between China and North Korea may have contributed to Tuesday&rsquo;s agreement, the Blue House official said.

The head of NATO on Tuesday urged all United Nation members to fully and transparently implement sanctions against North Korea, which he said has emerged as a global threat able to fire ballistic missiles as far as Europe and North America.

&#39;North Korea&rsquo;s ballistic and nuclear tests are an affront to the United Nations Security Council,&#39;&nbsp;North Atlantic Treaty Organization Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in Tokyo, where he met Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

ANNOUNCEMENT WELCOMED, SHARES RALLY

In statement coordinated with South Korea&rsquo;s announcement, China&rsquo;s foreign ministry said the two countries would get relations back onto a normal track &#39;at an early date&#39;.

South Korea recognised China&rsquo;s concerns on the THAAD issue and made it clear the deployment was not aimed at any third country and did not harm China&rsquo;s strategic security interests, China&rsquo;s foreign ministry said.

China reiterated its opposition to the deployment of THAAD, but noted South Korea&rsquo;s position and hoped South Korea could appropriately handle the issue, it added.

South Korean companies operating in China have suffered since the spat erupted last year, although Beijing has never specifically linked its actions to the THAAD deployment.

&#39;China repeated this stance during discussions, saying difficulties faced by South Korean companies were prompted by individual Chinese citizens angered by the THAAD deployment,&#39;&nbsp;the Blue House official said, adding that improvements for South Korean companies would come slowly.

Lotte Group, which provided the land where THAAD was installed, has suffered most. It faces a costly overhaul and is expected to sell its Chinese hypermarket stores for a fraction of what it invested.

A spokesman for Lotte Corp, the holding company of Lotte Group, expressed hope South Korean firms&rsquo; business activity in China would improve following the announcement.

South Korean tourism and retail shares rallied, with Lotte Tour surging more than 18 percent and Lotte Shopping up as much as 5.7 percent.

Shares of Asiana Airlines gained as much as 4.6 percent.

Hopes have been growing for a thaw in the frosty bilateral ties following China&rsquo;s recently completed Congress Party conclave, during which President Xi Jinping cemented his status as China&rsquo;s most powerful leader after Mao Zedong.

Earlier this month, South Korea and China agreed to renew a $56 billion currency swap agreement, while Chinese airlines are reportedly planning to restore flight routes to South Korea that had been cut during the spat.

The two heads of state are likely to discuss North Korea?s missile and nuclear programme as well as ways to develop bilateral ties

South Korea and China have agreed to work swiftly to get their relations back on track following a year-long standoff over the deployment of a controversial US anti-missile system in South Korea. The installation of the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system had angered China and spilled over into trade, hurting South Korean business interests in the country. China believed the system’s powerful radar could be used to look inside its territory. South Korea and the United States have repeatedly said THAAD only serves to defend against the growing missile threat from North Korea. 'Both sides shared the view that the strengthening of exchange and cooperation between Korea and China serves their common interests and agreed to expeditiously bring exchange and cooperation in all areas back on a normal development track,' South Korea’s foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. 'South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in will meet with China’s President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of an upcoming summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries in Vietnam on November 10-11.' South Korea’s presidential office said. The two heads of state are likely to discuss North Korea’s missile and nuclear programme as well as ways to develop bilateral ties, a senior South Korean presidential Blue House official later told reporters, declining to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter. Pyongyang has undertaken an unprecedented missile testing programme in recent months, as well as its biggest nuclear test yet in early September, as it seeks to develop a powerful nuclear weapon capable of reaching the United States. The moves have angered China, North Korea’s only major ally, and drawn further tough sanctions from the United Nations and the United States. The recent deterioration in ties between China and North Korea may have contributed to Tuesday’s agreement, the Blue House official said. The head of NATO on Tuesday urged all United Nation members to fully and transparently implement sanctions against North Korea, which he said has emerged as a global threat able to fire ballistic missiles as far as Europe and North America. 'North Korea’s ballistic and nuclear tests are an affront to the United Nations Security Council,' North Atlantic Treaty Organization Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in Tokyo, where he met Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. ANNOUNCEMENT WELCOMED, SHARES RALLY In statement coordinated with South Korea’s announcement, China’s foreign ministry said the two countries would get relations back onto a normal track 'at an early date'. South Korea recognised China’s concerns on the THAAD issue and made it clear the deployment was not aimed at any third country and did not harm China’s strategic security interests, China’s foreign ministry said. China reiterated its opposition to the deployment of THAAD, but noted South Korea’s position and hoped South Korea could appropriately handle the issue, it added. South Korean companies operating in China have suffered since the spat erupted last year, although Beijing has never specifically linked its actions to the THAAD deployment. 'China repeated this stance during discussions, saying difficulties faced by South Korean companies were prompted by individual Chinese citizens angered by the THAAD deployment,' the Blue House official said, adding that improvements for South Korean companies would come slowly. Lotte Group, which provided the land where THAAD was installed, has suffered most. It faces a costly overhaul and is expected to sell its Chinese hypermarket stores for a fraction of what it invested. A spokesman for Lotte Corp, the holding company of Lotte Group, expressed hope South Korean firms’ business activity in China would improve following the announcement. South Korean tourism and retail shares rallied, with Lotte Tour surging more than 18 percent and Lotte Shopping up as much as 5.7 percent. Shares of Asiana Airlines gained as much as 4.6 percent. Hopes have been growing for a thaw in the frosty bilateral ties following China’s recently completed Congress Party conclave, during which President Xi Jinping cemented his status as China’s most powerful leader after Mao Zedong. Earlier this month, South Korea and China agreed to renew a $56 billion currency swap agreement, while Chinese airlines are reportedly planning to restore flight routes to South Korea that had been cut during the spat.

After THAAD fallout, South Korea, China would get relations back onto a normal track

The US envoy to the United Nations said Sunday said there was &quot;no point&quot; in holding a likely fruitless emergency Security Council session on North Korea&#39;s latest launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile

Warning that a weak additional council resolution would be &quot;worse than nothing&quot; in light of the North&#39;s repeated violations, Nikki Haley also urged China, Japan and South Korea to tighten the screws on Pyongyang.

Speculation had been rife that Washington would seek an emergency session of the Security Council, but Haley shot down such suggestions, stating simply: &quot;That is mistaken.&quot;

&quot;There is no point in having an emergency session if it produces nothing of consequence,&quot; Haley said in a statement, noting that the North violates &quot;with impunity&quot; the numerous Security Council resolutions to which it is subjected.

&quot;An additional Security Council resolution that does not significantly increase the international pressure on North Korea is of no value.

&quot;In fact, it is worse than nothing, because it sends the message to the North Korean dictator that the international community is unwilling to seriously challenge him,&quot; Haley added.

Current UN resolutions bar North Korea from developing any ballistic missile-related and nuclear technology, but Pyongyang has defiantly pressed on with its military programs.

Under Kim Jong-Un&#39;s leadership, North Korea has accelerated its drive towards a credible nuclear strike capability, in defiance of international condemnation and multiple sets of UN sanctions. The US Senate passed new bipartisan sanctions on Pyongyang Friday.

In all, six sets of UN sanctions have been imposed on North Korea since it first tested an atomic device in 2006, but two resolutions adopted last year significantly toughened the sanctions regime.

&quot;China must decide whether it is finally willing to take this vital step. The time for talk is over,&quot; Haley said.

In an earlier tweet, she pressed China to &quot;act&quot; and Japan and South Korea to increase &quot;pressure,&quot; stressing that the North Korean issue requires an international solution.

'There is no point in having an emergency session if it produces nothing of consequence,' US envoy to the UN Nikki Haley said in a statement

The US envoy to the United Nations said Sunday said there was "no point" in holding a likely fruitless emergency Security Council session on North Korea's latest launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile Warning that a weak additional council resolution would be "worse than nothing" in light of the North's repeated violations, Nikki Haley also urged China, Japan and South Korea to tighten the screws on Pyongyang. Speculation had been rife that Washington would seek an emergency session of the Security Council, but Haley shot down such suggestions, stating simply: "That is mistaken." "There is no point in having an emergency session if it produces nothing of consequence," Haley said in a statement, noting that the North violates "with impunity" the numerous Security Council resolutions to which it is subjected. "An additional Security Council resolution that does not significantly increase the international pressure on North Korea is of no value. "In fact, it is worse than nothing, because it sends the message to the North Korean dictator that the international community is unwilling to seriously challenge him," Haley added. Current UN resolutions bar North Korea from developing any ballistic missile-related and nuclear technology, but Pyongyang has defiantly pressed on with its military programs. Under Kim Jong-Un's leadership, North Korea has accelerated its drive towards a credible nuclear strike capability, in defiance of international condemnation and multiple sets of UN sanctions. The US Senate passed new bipartisan sanctions on Pyongyang Friday. In all, six sets of UN sanctions have been imposed on North Korea since it first tested an atomic device in 2006, but two resolutions adopted last year significantly toughened the sanctions regime. "China must decide whether it is finally willing to take this vital step. The time for talk is over," Haley said. In an earlier tweet, she pressed China to "act" and Japan and South Korea to increase "pressure," stressing that the North Korean issue requires an international solution.

'No point' in urgent UN meeting after North Korea missile launch: US

The United States plans to carry out a new test of its THAAD missile defence system against an intermediate-range ballistic missile in the coming days, two U.S. officials told Reuters on Friday, as tensions with North Korea climb.

Despite being planned months ago, the US&nbsp;missile defence test will gain significance in the wake of North Korea&#39;s launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on July 4 that has heightened concerns about the threat from Pyongyang.

The test will be the first of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) to defend against a simulated attack by an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), one of the officials said. The THAAD interceptors will be fired from Alaska.

The United States has THAAD interceptors in Guam that are meant to help guard against a missile attack from a country such as North Korea.

The officials who disclosed to Reuters the precise nature and timing of the test spoke on condition of anonymity.

Asked by Reuters, the US&nbsp;Missile Defence Agency confirmed that it aimed to carry out a THAAD flight test &quot;in early July.&quot;

Chris Johnson, a spokesman at the Missile Defence Agency, said the THAAD weapon system at the Pacific Spaceport Complex Alaska in Kodiak, Alaska, would &quot;detect, track and engage a target with a THAAD interceptor.&quot;

&quot;The test is designated as Flight Test THAAD (FTT)-18,&quot; Johnson said, without elaborating.

In May testimony to Congress, however, Vice Admiral James Syring, then the director of the Missile Defence Agency, said FTT-18 would aim to demonstrate THAAD&#39;s ability to intercept a separating IRBM target.

THAAD is a ground-based missile defence system that defends against short-, medium- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles at the terminal stage of flight.

Syring, in his testimony, said THAAD had a 100 percent successful track record in its 13 flight tests so far.

Lockheed Martin Corp &lt;LMT.N&gt; is the prime contractor for the THAAD system.

The test will be the first of the THAAD to defend against a simulated attack by an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), a Reuters report cited an official as saying

The United States plans to carry out a new test of its THAAD missile defence system against an intermediate-range ballistic missile in the coming days, two U.S. officials told Reuters on Friday, as tensions with North Korea climb. Despite being planned months ago, the US missile defence test will gain significance in the wake of North Korea's launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on July 4 that has heightened concerns about the threat from Pyongyang. The test will be the first of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) to defend against a simulated attack by an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), one of the officials said. The THAAD interceptors will be fired from Alaska. The United States has THAAD interceptors in Guam that are meant to help guard against a missile attack from a country such as North Korea. The officials who disclosed to Reuters the precise nature and timing of the test spoke on condition of anonymity. Asked by Reuters, the US Missile Defence Agency confirmed that it aimed to carry out a THAAD flight test "in early July." Chris Johnson, a spokesman at the Missile Defence Agency, said the THAAD weapon system at the Pacific Spaceport Complex Alaska in Kodiak, Alaska, would "detect, track and engage a target with a THAAD interceptor." "The test is designated as Flight Test THAAD (FTT)-18," Johnson said, without elaborating. In May testimony to Congress, however, Vice Admiral James Syring, then the director of the Missile Defence Agency, said FTT-18 would aim to demonstrate THAAD's ability to intercept a separating IRBM target. THAAD is a ground-based missile defence system that defends against short-, medium- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles at the terminal stage of flight. Syring, in his testimony, said THAAD had a 100 percent successful track record in its 13 flight tests so far. Lockheed Martin Corp <LMT.N> is the prime contractor for the THAAD system.

US plans to test THAAD missile defences as North Korea tensions escalate: Report

South Korea has accepted a last-minute invitation from China to a conference on a new Silk Road, days after a new president took office on Seoul pledging to engage in discussions with Beijing to ease tension over a US anti-missile system.

Chinese President Xi Jinping extended the invitation to the Belt and Road conference in Beijing during a telephone call on Thursday with new South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Moon&#39;s spokesman, Yoon Young-chan, told a briefing on Friday.

Ties between South Korea and China, who are important trade partners, have been strained by Seoul&#39;s decision to host a US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system in response to a growing missile threat from North Korea.

China has protested against the deployment saying the system&#39;s powerful radar can probe deep into its territory, undermining is security, destabilising the regional security balance and doing little to deter North Korea.

Leaders of 28 countries and senior officials from many more gather in Beijing on Sunday for to discuss Xi&#39;s initiative to expand trade links between Asia, Africa and Europe through billions of dollars in infrastructure investment.

But until Thursday, South Korea had not been invited.

Moon will send a delegation headed by Park Byeong-seug, a veteran member of parliament and a senior official of Moon&#39;s liberal Democratic Party, Yoon said.

In their telephone call on Thursday, Moon told Xi he &quot;understands China&#39;s interest in the THAAD deployment and its concerns,&quot; Yoon said earlier.

Moon spoke to Xi about the difficulties faced by some South Korean companies doing business in China facing discrimination in retaliation for the THAAD deployment. China denies it has done anything to hurt South Korean businesses.

Park, the member of parliament heading the delegation, has been mentioned in South Korean media as a strong candidate to be Moon&#39;s special envoy to China.

The Belt and Road initiative has been used by Xi to help showcase China as an open economy, although many diplomats and business groups have been sceptical about China&#39;s aims.

North Korea, which considers China its sole major diplomatic ally and economic benefactor, is also expected to send a delegation to the two-day meeting in Beijing, the Chinese foreign ministry has said.

(Reuters)

Chinese President Xi Jinping extended the invitation to the Belt and Road conference in Beijing during a telephone call on Thursday with new South Korean President Moon Jae-in

South Korea has accepted a last-minute invitation from China to a conference on a new Silk Road, days after a new president took office on Seoul pledging to engage in discussions with Beijing to ease tension over a US anti-missile system. Chinese President Xi Jinping extended the invitation to the Belt and Road conference in Beijing during a telephone call on Thursday with new South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Moon's spokesman, Yoon Young-chan, told a briefing on Friday. Ties between South Korea and China, who are important trade partners, have been strained by Seoul's decision to host a US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system in response to a growing missile threat from North Korea. China has protested against the deployment saying the system's powerful radar can probe deep into its territory, undermining is security, destabilising the regional security balance and doing little to deter North Korea. Leaders of 28 countries and senior officials from many more gather in Beijing on Sunday for to discuss Xi's initiative to expand trade links between Asia, Africa and Europe through billions of dollars in infrastructure investment. But until Thursday, South Korea had not been invited. Moon will send a delegation headed by Park Byeong-seug, a veteran member of parliament and a senior official of Moon's liberal Democratic Party, Yoon said. In their telephone call on Thursday, Moon told Xi he "understands China's interest in the THAAD deployment and its concerns," Yoon said earlier. Moon spoke to Xi about the difficulties faced by some South Korean companies doing business in China facing discrimination in retaliation for the THAAD deployment. China denies it has done anything to hurt South Korean businesses. Park, the member of parliament heading the delegation, has been mentioned in South Korean media as a strong candidate to be Moon's special envoy to China. The Belt and Road initiative has been used by Xi to help showcase China as an open economy, although many diplomats and business groups have been sceptical about China's aims. North Korea, which considers China its sole major diplomatic ally and economic benefactor, is also expected to send a delegation to the two-day meeting in Beijing, the Chinese foreign ministry has said. (Reuters)

Seoul to attend China's Belt and Road conference after chill in ties over US anti-missile system

The Chinese defence ministry has announced the successful testing of a new type of missile, a Chinese daily reported.

&quot;The People&#39;s Liberation Army Rocket Force conducted tests of new types of missiles somewhere in Bohai in recent days, and achieved desired results,&quot; South China Morning Post quoted that the ministry, as saying in a statement.&nbsp;The statement did not say what missiles were tested.

The military said the test was designed to boost capacity to fight threats to national security, South China Morning Post quoted.

Military analysts said the &quot;rare high-profile announcement of the missile tests&quot; was a response to the THAAD deployment.

The announcement comes after last month Defence Ministry spokesperson Yang Yujun that Beijing would conduct live-fire drills and test new weapons to safeguard its security in response to the THAAD roll-out.

The US military began installing the first components of the system in South Korea late last month after North Korea refused to halt its missile launches and nuclear tests.

Zhou Chenming, from the Knowfar Institute for Strategic and Defence Studies, a Chinese think tank, said: &quot;The test might involve variants of new missile types, including the DF-21, DF-26 and other types of Dongfeng series missiles.&quot;

The DF-26B is the new generation of the Dongfeng series missiles.

Meanwhile, Macau-based military observer Antony Wong Dong said the test might also be aimed at Washington, which has sent two aircraft carrier strike groups to waters off the peninsula.

(ANI)

Military analysts said the 'rare high-profile announcement of the missile tests' was a response to the THAAD deployment

The Chinese defence ministry has announced the successful testing of a new type of missile, a Chinese daily reported. "The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force conducted tests of new types of missiles somewhere in Bohai in recent days, and achieved desired results," South China Morning Post quoted that the ministry, as saying in a statement. The statement did not say what missiles were tested. The military said the test was designed to boost capacity to fight threats to national security, South China Morning Post quoted. Military analysts said the "rare high-profile announcement of the missile tests" was a response to the THAAD deployment. The announcement comes after last month Defence Ministry spokesperson Yang Yujun that Beijing would conduct live-fire drills and test new weapons to safeguard its security in response to the THAAD roll-out. The US military began installing the first components of the system in South Korea late last month after North Korea refused to halt its missile launches and nuclear tests. Zhou Chenming, from the Knowfar Institute for Strategic and Defence Studies, a Chinese think tank, said: "The test might involve variants of new missile types, including the DF-21, DF-26 and other types of Dongfeng series missiles." The DF-26B is the new generation of the Dongfeng series missiles. Meanwhile, Macau-based military observer Antony Wong Dong said the test might also be aimed at Washington, which has sent two aircraft carrier strike groups to waters off the peninsula. (ANI)

China has conducted new missile tests to counter THAAD: Report

A controversial missile defense system whose deployment has angered China is now operational in South Korea, the US military said Monday.

Washington and Seoul agreed to the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery deployment in July in the wake of a string of North Korean missile tests.

US Forces Korea said THAAD is &quot;operational and has the ability to intercept North Korean missiles and defend the Republic.&quot;

A US defense official told AFP, however, that the system has only &quot;reached initial intercept capability&quot;.

This initial capability will be augmented later this year as additional hardware and components arrive to complete the system, officials said.

THAAD&#39;s deployment in South Korea has infuriated China, which fears it will weaken its own ballistic missile capabilities and says it upsets the regional security balance.

The THAAD system, which is being installed on a former golf course in the southern county of Seongju, is designed to intercept and destroy short- and medium-range ballistic missiles during their final phase of flight.

Beijing has imposed a host of measures seen as economic retaliation against the South for the THAAD deployment, including a ban on tour groups.

Retail conglomerate Lotte, which previously owned the golf course, has also been targeted, with 85 of its 99 stores in China shut down, while South Korea&#39;s biggest automaker Hyundai Motor has said its Chinese sales have fallen sharply.

The THAAD deployment comes as tension soars on the Korean peninsula following a series of missile launches by the North and warnings from the administration of US President Donald Trump that military action is an &quot;option on the table.&quot;

Who should pay?

Further complicating matters, Trump stunned Seoul last week when he suggested South Korea should pay for the $1 billion THAAD system.

&quot;I informed South Korea it would be appropriate if they paid. It&#39;s a billion-dollar system,&quot; Trump was quoted as saying in a published report.

&quot;It&#39;s phenomenal, shoots missiles right out of the sky.&quot;

Seoul retorted that under the Status of Forces Agreement that governs the US military presence in the country, the South would provide the THAAD site and infrastructure while the US would pay to deploy and operate it.

Thomas Karako, the director of the Missile Defense Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted that South Korea&#39;s sole THAAD battery does not quite have the range to cover the entire country.

But he called it an important first step.

&quot;This is not about a having a perfect shield, this is about buying time and thereby contributing to the overall credibility of deterrence,&quot; Karako told AFP.

&quot;South Korea with THAAD helps communicate to the North that today is not a good day to attack. It doesn&#39;t mean that they could not do a lot of damage -- they would -- but it strengthens the overall posture.&quot;

In a surprise development, Trump on Monday said he would not rule out meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, under the right conditions.

&quot;If it would be appropriate for me to meet with him, I would, absolutely. I would be honored to do it,&quot; Trump told Bloomberg News.

(AFP)

A US defense official told AFP, however, that the system has only 'reached initial intercept capability'

A controversial missile defense system whose deployment has angered China is now operational in South Korea, the US military said Monday. Washington and Seoul agreed to the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery deployment in July in the wake of a string of North Korean missile tests. US Forces Korea said THAAD is "operational and has the ability to intercept North Korean missiles and defend the Republic." A US defense official told AFP, however, that the system has only "reached initial intercept capability". This initial capability will be augmented later this year as additional hardware and components arrive to complete the system, officials said. THAAD's deployment in South Korea has infuriated China, which fears it will weaken its own ballistic missile capabilities and says it upsets the regional security balance. The THAAD system, which is being installed on a former golf course in the southern county of Seongju, is designed to intercept and destroy short- and medium-range ballistic missiles during their final phase of flight. Beijing has imposed a host of measures seen as economic retaliation against the South for the THAAD deployment, including a ban on tour groups. Retail conglomerate Lotte, which previously owned the golf course, has also been targeted, with 85 of its 99 stores in China shut down, while South Korea's biggest automaker Hyundai Motor has said its Chinese sales have fallen sharply. The THAAD deployment comes as tension soars on the Korean peninsula following a series of missile launches by the North and warnings from the administration of US President Donald Trump that military action is an "option on the table." Who should pay? Further complicating matters, Trump stunned Seoul last week when he suggested South Korea should pay for the $1 billion THAAD system. "I informed South Korea it would be appropriate if they paid. It's a billion-dollar system," Trump was quoted as saying in a published report. "It's phenomenal, shoots missiles right out of the sky." Seoul retorted that under the Status of Forces Agreement that governs the US military presence in the country, the South would provide the THAAD site and infrastructure while the US would pay to deploy and operate it. Thomas Karako, the director of the Missile Defense Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted that South Korea's sole THAAD battery does not quite have the range to cover the entire country. But he called it an important first step. "This is not about a having a perfect shield, this is about buying time and thereby contributing to the overall credibility of deterrence," Karako told AFP. "South Korea with THAAD helps communicate to the North that today is not a good day to attack. It doesn't mean that they could not do a lot of damage -- they would -- but it strengthens the overall posture." In a surprise development, Trump on Monday said he would not rule out meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, under the right conditions. "If it would be appropriate for me to meet with him, I would, absolutely. I would be honored to do it," Trump told Bloomberg News. (AFP)

THAAD missile defense system now operational in South Korea

South Korea&#39;s biggest automaker Hyundai Motor posted a 21 per cent drop in first-quarter profits on Wednesday, hammered by the fallout from a diplomatic spat between Seoul and Beijing over a US missile defence system.

In a statement, Hyundai said it posted 1.46 trillion won (US$1.3 billion) in net profits during the January to March period, its 13th consecutive quarter of profit downturn.&nbsp;

&quot;Partial suspensions at factories increased cost burdens while bigger marketing fees were spent to overcome the global economic slowdown,&quot; the company said.

The firm said it recorded strong sales in emerging markets like Russia and Brazil but added that &quot;weak demand&quot; by Chinese consumers resulted in a drop in overseas sales.

Sales in China plunged 44 per cent last month. Beijing has been infuriated by the deployment of the THAAD missile defence system in the South and has imposed a series of measures seen as economic retaliation.

Seoul and Washington say the system is intended to guard against missile threats from the nuclear-armed North.

But China fears it will weaken its own ballistic capabilities and says it upsets the regional security balance.&nbsp;

Worldwide, Hyundai sold fewer than 1.1 million cars in the first quarter, 1.6 per cent fewer than the same period last year.

The company forecast more challenges ahead in the face of slow global growth and spreading trade protectionism.

(AFP)

In a statement, Hyundai said it posted 1.46 trillion won (US$1.3 billion) in net profits during the January to March period, its 13th consecutive quarter of profit downturn

South Korea's biggest automaker Hyundai Motor posted a 21 per cent drop in first-quarter profits on Wednesday, hammered by the fallout from a diplomatic spat between Seoul and Beijing over a US missile defence system. In a statement, Hyundai said it posted 1.46 trillion won (US$1.3 billion) in net profits during the January to March period, its 13th consecutive quarter of profit downturn. "Partial suspensions at factories increased cost burdens while bigger marketing fees were spent to overcome the global economic slowdown," the company said. The firm said it recorded strong sales in emerging markets like Russia and Brazil but added that "weak demand" by Chinese consumers resulted in a drop in overseas sales. Sales in China plunged 44 per cent last month. Beijing has been infuriated by the deployment of the THAAD missile defence system in the South and has imposed a series of measures seen as economic retaliation. Seoul and Washington say the system is intended to guard against missile threats from the nuclear-armed North. But China fears it will weaken its own ballistic capabilities and says it upsets the regional security balance. Worldwide, Hyundai sold fewer than 1.1 million cars in the first quarter, 1.6 per cent fewer than the same period last year. The company forecast more challenges ahead in the face of slow global growth and spreading trade protectionism. (AFP)

Hyundai Motor posts 21% drop in first-quarter profits

The United States has started installing the controversial THAAD missile defence equipment in South Korea, as Washington&#39;s relations with North Korea remains on a&nbsp;knife edge.

Yonhap, South Korea&#39;s largest news agency, reported that six trailers carrying the THAAD missile had entered a golf course in South Korea on Wednesday morning.

The deployment of the advanced missile defence system in South Korea is to counter any threat from Pyongyang, who have thumbed nose at a series of sanctions to go ahead with their ballistic missile programme.

North Korea has also been vocal about their plan to conduct their sixth nuclear weapons test.

South Korea&#39;s defence ministry said the THAAD will be fully operational by the end of 2017.

South Korea and the US decided to position the THAAD weeks back following an increasingly bellicose rhetoric emanating from Pyongyang.

The THAAD system is meant to intercept and destroy short and medium-range ballistic missiles during their final phase of flight.

Controversial THAAD

Although THAAD will ease South Korea&#39;s security, China has been a vocal critic of the advanced missile interceptor.

Beijing feels the deployment of THAAD not only enables US&#39; presence in the region, the defence system will also help Washington monitor and disrupt their missile tests.

China has long been against the deployment of THAAD in the region, but South Korea&#39;s decision to install it amid the sabre-rattling of their neighbours has angered Beijing.

In recent days, China has not only put an unofficial sanction on South Korean companies operating in their country, its hackers linked to &quot;military and intelligence agencies&quot; have &quot;launched a variety of attacks against the South Korea&#39;s government, military and a big conglomerate&quot;, according to a report in the Journal.

Local unrest

The deployment has also raised concerns among locals.

Residents of Seongju county in South Korea and the police clashed with each other over the deployment of THAAD in one of the region&#39;s golf courses.

The residents have been against the positioning of THAAD there because they believe it would infuriate North leader Kim Jong-Un and would prompt him to attack them.

They also cite environmental concerns.

On Wednesday, all hands were on the deck for the police as they had to contend with about 8,000 angry residents. The police had to call for back-up as scuffles erupted between the two factions.

US offensive

The United States has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group led by the USS Carl Vinson to the western Pacific.

Trump has indicated he is willing to ramp up US military pressure on North Korea while simultaneously encouraging China to use its influence on its ally, and reject bilateral diplomacy with Pyongyang.

The US has long pushed for China to make more efforts to curb Pyongyang&#39;s behaviour.

But Beijing has resisted, concerned that a regime collapse could trigger a flood of refugees across the border and leave the US military on its doorstep.

Chinese President Xi Jinping called Monday for &quot;restraint&quot; regarding North Korea in a telephone conversation with Trump.

US defence leaders and other top officials are to give a classified briefing on North Korea to all senators in an unusual meeting at the White House later Wednesday.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

The THAAD arrived in the South as North Korea continues with its ballistic missile programme

The United States has started installing the controversial THAAD missile defence equipment in South Korea, as Washington's relations with North Korea remains on a knife edge. Yonhap, South Korea's largest news agency, reported that six trailers carrying the THAAD missile had entered a golf course in South Korea on Wednesday morning. The deployment of the advanced missile defence system in South Korea is to counter any threat from Pyongyang, who have thumbed nose at a series of sanctions to go ahead with their ballistic missile programme. North Korea has also been vocal about their plan to conduct their sixth nuclear weapons test. South Korea's defence ministry said the THAAD will be fully operational by the end of 2017. South Korea and the US decided to position the THAAD weeks back following an increasingly bellicose rhetoric emanating from Pyongyang. The THAAD system is meant to intercept and destroy short and medium-range ballistic missiles during their final phase of flight. Controversial THAAD Although THAAD will ease South Korea's security, China has been a vocal critic of the advanced missile interceptor. Beijing feels the deployment of THAAD not only enables US' presence in the region, the defence system will also help Washington monitor and disrupt their missile tests. China has long been against the deployment of THAAD in the region, but South Korea's decision to install it amid the sabre-rattling of their neighbours has angered Beijing. In recent days, China has not only put an unofficial sanction on South Korean companies operating in their country, its hackers linked to "military and intelligence agencies" have "launched a variety of attacks against the South Korea's government, military and a big conglomerate", according to a report in the Journal. Local unrest The deployment has also raised concerns among locals. Residents of Seongju county in South Korea and the police clashed with each other over the deployment of THAAD in one of the region's golf courses. The residents have been against the positioning of THAAD there because they believe it would infuriate North leader Kim Jong-Un and would prompt him to attack them. They also cite environmental concerns. On Wednesday, all hands were on the deck for the police as they had to contend with about 8,000 angry residents. The police had to call for back-up as scuffles erupted between the two factions. US offensive The United States has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group led by the USS Carl Vinson to the western Pacific. Trump has indicated he is willing to ramp up US military pressure on North Korea while simultaneously encouraging China to use its influence on its ally, and reject bilateral diplomacy with Pyongyang. The US has long pushed for China to make more efforts to curb Pyongyang's behaviour. But Beijing has resisted, concerned that a regime collapse could trigger a flood of refugees across the border and leave the US military on its doorstep. Chinese President Xi Jinping called Monday for "restraint" regarding North Korea in a telephone conversation with Trump. US defence leaders and other top officials are to give a classified briefing on North Korea to all senators in an unusual meeting at the White House later Wednesday. (WION with inputs from AFP)

US' missile defence interceptor arrives in South Korea to counter North's threat

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on North Korea on Wednesday to stop nuclear and missile tests and, for the United States and South Korea to stop joint military drills that the isolated North regards as preparation for war.

North Korea launched four ballistic missiles on Monday in response to the military exercises. Wang said those tests and the drills were causing tensions on the Korean Peninsula to increase like two &quot;accelerating trains coming toward each other&quot;.

&quot;China&#39;s suggestion is, as a first step, for North Korea to suspend nuclear activity, and for the US&nbsp;and South Korea to also suspend large-scale military drills,&quot; Wang said at his annual news conference on the sidelines of the meeting of China&#39;s parliament in Beijing.

He said this &quot;dual suspension&quot; would allow all sides to return to the negotiating table.

North Korea fired four missiles into the sea off Japan&#39;s northwest coast on Monday, angering South Korea and Japan with the latest in a series of ballistic missile and nuclear tests in defiance of United Nations resolutions in recent months.

&quot;Holding nuclear weapons won&#39;t bring security, using military force won&#39;t be a way out,&quot; Wang said. &quot;There remains a chance of resuming talks, there is still hope for peace.&quot;

The United States had started to deploy the first elements of its advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system to South Korea after the North&#39;s latest tests, US&nbsp;Pacific Command said on Tuesday.

The deployment of the anti-missile defence system was likely to deepen a brewing conflict between South Korea and China, which has angrily opposed the THAAD deployment as destroying the regional security balance.

The planned THAAD installation, which South Korea has said would be operational by the end of the year, has led to a diplomatic standoff between China and South Korea.

Chinese authorities have closed nearly two dozen retail stores of South Korea&#39;s Lotte Group, which approved a land swap with the military last week to allow it to install the system.

China objects to the THAAD deployment, saying its territory is the target of the system&#39;s far-reaching radar. South Korea and the United States have said the missile system is aimed only at curbing North Korean provocations.

China is isolated North Korea&#39;s most important supporter, but Beijing has been angered by its repeated missile and nuclear tests and has signed up for increasingly severe UN&nbsp;sanctions against Pyongyang, including suspending coal imports.

China has also rejected accusations from US&nbsp;President Donald Trump that Beijing could be doing more, saying the problem was ultimately between Washington and Pyongyang.

(Reuters)

China is isolated North Korea's most important supporter, but Beijing has been angered by its repeated missile and nuclear tests

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on North Korea on Wednesday to stop nuclear and missile tests and, for the United States and South Korea to stop joint military drills that the isolated North regards as preparation for war. North Korea launched four ballistic missiles on Monday in response to the military exercises. Wang said those tests and the drills were causing tensions on the Korean Peninsula to increase like two "accelerating trains coming toward each other". "China's suggestion is, as a first step, for North Korea to suspend nuclear activity, and for the US and South Korea to also suspend large-scale military drills," Wang said at his annual news conference on the sidelines of the meeting of China's parliament in Beijing. He said this "dual suspension" would allow all sides to return to the negotiating table. North Korea fired four missiles into the sea off Japan's northwest coast on Monday, angering South Korea and Japan with the latest in a series of ballistic missile and nuclear tests in defiance of United Nations resolutions in recent months. "Holding nuclear weapons won't bring security, using military force won't be a way out," Wang said. "There remains a chance of resuming talks, there is still hope for peace." The United States had started to deploy the first elements of its advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system to South Korea after the North's latest tests, US Pacific Command said on Tuesday. The deployment of the anti-missile defence system was likely to deepen a brewing conflict between South Korea and China, which has angrily opposed the THAAD deployment as destroying the regional security balance. The planned THAAD installation, which South Korea has said would be operational by the end of the year, has led to a diplomatic standoff between China and South Korea. Chinese authorities have closed nearly two dozen retail stores of South Korea's Lotte Group, which approved a land swap with the military last week to allow it to install the system. China objects to the THAAD deployment, saying its territory is the target of the system's far-reaching radar. South Korea and the United States have said the missile system is aimed only at curbing North Korean provocations. China is isolated North Korea's most important supporter, but Beijing has been angered by its repeated missile and nuclear tests and has signed up for increasingly severe UN sanctions against Pyongyang, including suspending coal imports. China has also rejected accusations from US President Donald Trump that Beijing could be doing more, saying the problem was ultimately between Washington and Pyongyang. (Reuters)

China asks North Korea to stop missile tests, tells US and South to seek talks

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