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Updated February 2006
Missile Chronology
1990-1991
11 January 1990
U.S. State Department spokeswoman Margaret Tutwiler announces that the Bush administration does not believe China will sell more missiles to countries in the Middle East. Tutwiler quotes a Chinese statement from 9 December that calls accusations that China is selling missiles to the Middle East "groundless." Tutwiler says that "Chinese leaders have said that the PRC takes a prudent and responsible attitude regarding weapons sales, including the sale of missiles. We take these public statements at face value. We expect Chinese arms sales policy to be conducted in accordance with these standards."
— Wolf Blitzer, "China is not likely to Sell Missiles to Syria, Soviets Say," Jerusalem Post, 12 January 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
21 January 1990
Tehran radio announces an arms agreement Iran has reached with China. China will make transfers of military equipment to Iran, likely to include a variety of missiles, including the Chinese-designed Silkworm anti-ship missile and an extended range SCUD. The agreement is signed by Iranian Defense Minister Akbar Torkan, and the Deputy Director of China's Council of Science and Technology, General Jiang Xua.
—"10-Year Arms Agreement with China," Mednews-Middle East Defense News, 5 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
3 February 1990
The Bush administration orders a Chinese government corporation to sell a Seattle aircraft-parts manufacturer after government investigators report the Chinese firm could use its new acquisition to gain secret U.S. aircraft engine technology. China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corp. (CATIC) has been "trying to get military secrets." "We are concerned over CATIC's past activities. Our concern is CATIC using this purchase as a front to penetrate into other, more promising areas of security." A senior administration official says. In China, CATIC manufactures military planes and missiles. Administration officials say that there was no evidence that CATIC had gained any U.S. secrets over the past two months.
—Stuart Auerbach, "President Tells China to Sell Seattle Firm," Washington Post, 3 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
8 February 1990
Senator Jesse Helms calls Chinese leaders "gangsters," and tells Deputy Secretary of State Lawrence Eagleburger that despite the contacts and the easing of certain sanctions, China continues to send technology for ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons to Middle East nations. Defending his covert trip to China shortly after the Tiananmen incident, Eagleburger says in testimony before congress that the U.S. needs "a better balance between our fascination with the China of the 1970s and today's mood of disappointment and hostility." He goes on to say that the administration seeks China's "return to reform and openness by continuing to pursue the contacts...that encouraged such reform in the first place."
—"Lawmakers Criticize Eagleburger for China Trips," Japan Economic Newswire, 8 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
14-18 February 1990
A delegation from the Chinese Aerospace industry takes part in the Fifth Annual Asian Air Show in Singapore. China exhibits various kinds of aircraft, guided missiles, satellites, engines and airborne equipment. Chinese delegates also hold trade talks with other participants to enter into exchange of technology.
—"China to Take Part in Asian Air Show," Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 12 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
22 February 1990
Chinese President and Communist Party Leader Jiang Zemin meets with top Chinese scientists in the Great Hall of the People to praise them for their role in the modernization of China. He says "Many of China's sophisticated technologies, such as the atomic bomb, the hydrogen bomb and missiles, have been built through China's own efforts and despite the blockade imposed by foreign countries. I believe that the Chinese people have high aspirations to do even better work in science and technology despite all the difficulties."
—"Top Chinese Leaders Meet Scientists," Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 22 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://lexis-nexis.com>.
8 March 1990
AsiaSat, a communication satellite intended to provide television and telephone service throughout the Far East, will be launched aboard a Chinese-made Long March III rocket from the Xinchang missile range in China's southwest Sichuan Province. Delivery of the satellite had been held up by U.S. sanctions on high technology transfers after the Tiananmen crackdown last year.
—Gary Aderman, "China to Launch U.S.-made Satellite in April," United Press International, 8 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
27 March 1990
Western diplomats announce that they believe China has begun exporting short-range ballistic missiles, probably to Iran or Iraq, to raise cash. Officials at China's Defense Ministry say they are unaware of any missile sales.
—"China Selling Missiles, Diplomats Say," St. Louis Post Dispatch, 28 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>
28 March 1990
Western diplomats accuse China of shipping short-range ballistic missiles to the Middle East. After evaluating reports from witnesses who said they had seen the weapons being transported, said they believe the weapons were short-range ballistic missiles that are produced here for export and were being taken to the port of Tianjin, probably for shipment to Middle East countries. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Li Zhaoxing dismissed the report saying "don't believe in rumors." A Chinese defense ministry official said "we have no information on that." On Saturday and Monday two convoys of missiles, launchers and other equipment were transported at night across Peking under police escort, bound for Tianjin, some 75 miles east of the capital. "They certainly weren't big tubes of toothpaste" a western diplomat says.
—Daniel Southerland, "China Said to Sell Missiles; Shipment Reported Bound for Middle East," Washington Post, 29 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Andrew Higgins, "China Poised to Resume Missile Exports," Independent, 29 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
29 March 1990
The Bush administration announces plans to ask China if is continuing to sell missiles to the Middle East and will be very concerned if the answer is yes. White House press secretary Marlin Fitzwater says the U.S. has no independent knowledge that China is selling missiles in the trouble region. The Washington Post quoted Western diplomats saying that China has been shipping short range ballistic missiles from the port of Tianjin, probably for sale to the Middle East. "If it's true we'd be very concerned about it."
—"Administration Will Ask China If It Is Selling Missiles In Mideast," Associated Press, 29 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>
30 March 1990
The Bush administration seeks, but fails to obtain, reassurance from China that Beijing will not sell medium range missiles to the Middle East. Deputy spokesman Richard Boucher notes that Chinese leaders pledged to pursue a "prudent and responsible attitude." "You are well aware of the importance we attach to stopping missile proliferation. Our dialogue with Beijing on missile proliferation continues. Beijing has said that it will follow a prudent and responsible attitude and we will look for actions consistent with the statement. " He said. An administration official also says that a shipment of missiles that was transported through Beijing last week and suspected to have been shipped from the port of Tianjin, now appears to not have gone to Tianjin. The new analysis from intelligence agencies suggests that the missiles were not sold to another country.
—"U.S. Urging China Not to sell Missiles to Mideast," The Associated Press, 30 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Michael R. Gordon, "Beijing Avoids New Missile Assurances," New York Times, 30 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
4 April 1990
China unveils the PL-9 mobile surface-to-air missile at the FIDAE 90 exhibition in Chile. The PL-9 is designed and produced missile by NORINCO. The system is similar to the U.S. Chaparral mounting four Atoll type surface-to-air missiles on a 360 degree trackable launcher atop a six-wheeled WZ551D armored vehicle. Target acquisition is via a 360 degree-scan radar mounted on the top rear of the missile turret. The four missiles are stacked in pairs on each side of the turret, on the front of which is an electro-optical sting/laser rangefinder window. The radar envelope is 18km range at up to 6,000 m altitude, with an optical range of 10km. The PL-9 infra-red-guided missile is 3m long with a diameter of 160mm and weighs 120kgs at launch, including a 10kg warhead. Maximum speed of the PL-9 is Mach 2. NORINCO says that the weapons kill probability is 0.8. The maximum altitude of the missile is 5,000m, and the maximum launch range is 8.5km for an approaching target, or 5.5km for other aspects. The 16t vehicle is 6.6m long and 2.8m wide and has a 19kw engine. The crew has three operators and two drivers/mechanics. FIDAE is an aerospace and defense exhibition held in Chile.
—"Chinese Unveil PL-9 At FIDAE," Flight International, 4 April 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
8 April 1990
The Chinese successfully launch a U.S. satellite into orbit. The satellite is launched on the Chinese built Long March III rocket, bringing China into the international space market. The 135-foot rocket was launched from the Xinchang launch site, in southwestern Sichuan Province. U.S. Ambassador to China, James Lilley, in a ceremony to celebrate the launch, says that it "symbolizes the positive elements of the U.S.-China relationship." He also said that the satellite will bring the "communications revolution," to millions of people previously outside the reach of modern communications to China and the rest of Asia.
—Daniel Southerland, "China Launches U.S.-Built Satellite; Entry Into International Market Boosts Beijing's Cash Flow, Prestige," Washington Post, 8 April 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 April 1990
The Chinese defense company NORINCO unveils the second generation Red-Arrow 8 anti-tank guided weapon system for the first time deployed on a Harbin Aircraft Z-9 Haitun. The missile is helicopter mounted with a range of 100m to 3,000m. Red-Arrow 8 uses optical aiming, infra-red tracking and semi-automatic wire guidance. China Precision Machinery Import & Export Corp. (CPMIEC) releases details of the C802 rocket-boosted, air-breathing anti-ship sea-skimming missile. The C802 has a 15km minimum range and a 120km maximum range at speeds of Mach 0.8 to 0.9. The missile flies at 20-30m above the sea, descending in its terminal phase to between 5 and 7m. The system has a solid-rocket-launch booster and a turbojet cruise engine and uses active radar homing. The 380mm diameter system weighs 715 kg and is 6.4m long. It can be launched from aircraft, ships, or coastal defense batteries. NORINCO reveals a 273mm long-range rocket that is being developed in a truck-mounted eight-round launcher. The rocket is 4.5m long and weighs 519kg inclusive of a 150kg high-explosive warhead. The firing interval of the eight weapons is 2 seconds and has a range of 80km. CPMIEC reveals a similar rocket, the WS-1 non-guided rocket. The 320mm truck-mounted weapon is fired from a four-round launcher with a minimum range of 20km and a maximum range of 80km. Accuracy is 1.25% of range. The warhead weighs 150kg and the rocket weighs 520kg. NORINCO has also revealed the 81L, a 40-tube system with an automatic reload system. It takes 18s to fire all 40 rockets, and reload takes 3 minutes. Rockets have a range of 20km and 30km.
—"China Reveals Haitun Missile Fit," Flight International, 11 April 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "China Release Anti-Ship Missile Data," Flight International, 11 April 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "China Fields New Missile Systems," Flight International, 11 April 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
6 June 1990
Bush administration officials have expressed concern to the Chinese government over reports that China has continued to sell poison gas, intermediate-range missiles and other weapons to Saudi Arabia and other countries in the Middle East, State Department officials tell a Senate subcommittee. In a briefing regarding China's most-favored-nation trading status, Senator Joseph Biden says he was told he received briefings from administration officials that China continued to sell the weapons, despite assurances that it would not. "There has been....a good deal of briefing that some of us have received that the Chinese are engaged in several dangerous military relationships with countries in the Middle East and Southwest Asia," Biden said. "We have rumors or reports that some things may be going on and we raised the matter with the Chinese authorities and make clear that these are matters of serious concern," the State Departments top China officer, Assistant Secretary Richard Solomon said. Solomon went on to say that China has reassured the U.S. that all sales of Intermediate-range ballistic missiles were ceased last year. "Maybe you should get the same briefings that I get, then you wouldn't have any doubts. And I don't get them from the Chinese; I get them from the U.S. government," says Biden, in response to Solomon's statements.
—Stephen Kurkjian, "China Continues Toxic-Arms and Missile Sales, U.S. Says," Boston Globe, 7 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
6 June 1990
According to Israeli Intelligence Services, the Saudi Arabian DF-3 surface-to-surface missiles are now operational. The missiles are stored at two sites. Each site has four concrete launchers as well as 60 missiles stored in shelters at each site. Israel says that one site is located at Al-Sulaiyil, 500km south of Riyad, the other site is at Al-Joffer, 100km south of the capital.
—"Saudi CSS-2 Missiles Now Operational," Flight International, 6 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
14 June 1990
The U.K.-based newspaper The Independent reports that within the last week, China has agreed to help Egypt to modernize its production of surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles as part of an accord worth hundreds of millions of pounds, diplomatic sources in Cairo say. Under the protocol, China will update Egypt's Saqr missile factory, enabling it to produce newer versions of Soviet anti-aircraft missiles, the surface-to-surface SCUD B and Silkworm and the three types of Egyptian Saqr rockets. The deal is expected to double Egypt's production of the Silkworm DF-4, a 50-mile range missile with a 1,000lb warhead. Egyptian-Chinese research cooperation is expected to increase the range of the Silkworm DF-4 to 90 miles. Egypt is also expected to begin producing the Silkworm DF-5, with a range of 170 miles.
—Adel Darwish, "China to Update Egypt's Missiles," Independent, 14 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
21 July 1990
Saudi Arabia and China establish official diplomatic relations. The relationship effectively ends the relationship Saudi Arabia has had with Taiwan. Taiwan Foreign Minister Fredrick Chien accuses China of using "silver bullet" diplomacy, saying that China promised a discount of $710 million on an arms package valued at $6.6 billion that includes intermediate-range ballistic missiles.
—Abdullah Al-Fhehri, "China, Saudi Arabia Establish Diplomatic Relations," The Associated Press, 21 July 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
29 September 1990
A British newspaper reports that China sold large quantities of a rare chemical used for missile fuels, chemical weapons-and possibly nuclear weapons- in violation of the U.N. trade embargo. The Independent, in its Sunday editions, said it had documents showing that around 20 September a subsidiary of NORINCO agreed to supply seven tons of lithium hydride to Iraq for about $1.15 million.
—Sue Leeman, "China Supplied Rare Chemical to Iraq, Newspaper Says," The Associated Press, 29 September 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
30 September 1990
China denies reports that a private Chinese company has agreed to sell chemicals to Iraq that can be used in missile fuels. The report, in a British paper, accuses NORINCO of supplying the chemicals to Iraq.
—Simon Long, "China Denies Sale of Arms Materials," Guardian, 1 October 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
30 September 1990
In a statement issued by Xinhua in Beijing, an unidentified foreign ministry spokesman dismisses the charges that China sold chemicals to Iraq as "totally groundless."
—"Chinese 'May Sell' Chemicals to Iraq," Advertiser, 1 October 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
15 October 1990
French intentions to complete a contract to sell missiles and radar technology to China, despite the arms embargo that has been in place since the 1989 Tiananmen incident have met opposition within the global community. "The French are long on talk and short on action. They make a lot of noise about sanctions but continue behind others backs," one non-European Community diplomat said. Jane's Defense Weekly quotes the value of the deal at more than $70 million. "You don't think other countries are not trying to sell weapons to the Chinese?" A French source said.
—"French Weapons Contract With China Stirs up EC," Journal of Commerce, 15 October 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
24 October 1990
French manufacturer Thomson-CSF has been cleared to sell radars and missiles to China. The French government says that despite the arms embargo that has been in place since the Tiananmen crackdown in 1989, that France would honor a contract signed between China and France before 1988.
—"France to Send China Missiles," Flight International, 24 October 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 January 1991
China flies the prototype of two new aircraft, the K-8 and the FT-7, in Nanchang, the capital of Jiangxi Province. The FT-7 will be capable of teaching Chinese, and other third world pilots, how to fire American-built AIM-9 (sidewinder) air-to-air missiles and MK-82 bombs, the French R-550 strand of missiles, and other Western ordinance.
—"China Markets New Trainers," Mednews-Middle East Defense News, 22 July 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
14 January 1991
A report in a U.K. daily newspaper indicates that the Saudi defense ministry is resisting American attempts to inspect Chinese-supplied CSS-2 (DF-3) ballistic missiles after intelligence reports said China might have supplied up to a dozen nuclear warheads to be fitted on the missiles. Intelligence reports indicate that 36 missiles are deployed west of al-Kharj, south of Riyadh. The reports also say half of them are likely to have been fitted with chemical warheads.
—Adel Darwish, "Crisis in the Gulf: Nuclear Warhead," Independent, 14 January 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
22 January 1991
China successfully launches its first 120-kilometer high, low latitude sounding rocket today at a launching pad in Haikou, the capital of Hainan Province. The rocket, named 'Weaver Girl 3', was launched at 18:23 (Beijing time) today. The 4.87 meter rocket, which weighs 285 kilograms (kg) and has a pay load of 45 kilograms, became operational as a result of more than two years of joint effort by the Chinese Academy of Sciences Space Center and three related units. Data obtained from the probes can be used as altitude environmental parameters for the development of carrier rockets, ballistic missiles, man-made satellites, and manned spacecraft.
—"China Launches Sounding Rocket," Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 22 January 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
23 January 1991
China continues rocket development in hopes of sending a man to space. The oxyhydrogen engine of China's Long March 3 rocket could be restarted under a vacuum and in weightless conditions in space, and this has enabled the most crucial technology of Chinese carrier rockets to reach the most advanced world standards. At present, the delivery capacity of China's rocket for earth-synchronous orbit has reached 1,400 kg. China is stepping up efforts to manufacture Long March 1D and Long March 3A rockets. The launching of the Long March 2E rocket has been successful. By 1992, it is estimated that China will have a delivery capacity of between 300 kg to 8,000 kg for a near-earth orbit, of between 1,400 kg to 2,500 kg for a synchronous orbit, meeting the needs of launching satellites of various types, as well as technologically preparing for launching spacecraft of more than 4,000 kg into a synchronous orbit. The BBC, quoting from an unnamed Chinese newspaper, carried the following quote from the Chinese government: "It can be predicted that through the ceaseless efforts of China's astronautics technology workers, the era in which Chinese will be flying in their own spacecraft and developing outer space, is not far off."
—"Manned Chinese space flight "not too far off," British Broadcasting Corporation, 31 January 1991, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
31 January 1991
The Hong Kong paper Tangtai on 26 January carried an article on the use of Chinese- made missiles in the Gulf war. The article said that some U.S. Tomahawk cruise missiles had been brought down by Iraq with Chinese-made Hongqi-3 ground-to-air guided missiles, which had been supplied by China to Iraq during the Iran-Iraq War, although Baghdad had not used them at that time.
—"Chinese Missiles Play Role in Gulf War," The British Broadcasting Corporation, January 31, 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
March 1991
The United States is seeking China's cooperation in efforts to control arms exports to the Middle East in the aftermath of the Persian Gulf War, a senior U.S. official said. "As we try to find some multilateral mechanism to prevent the inflow of weapons, China's going to have to be a player," said Richard H. Solomon, assistant secretary of state for East Asia. Solomon's visit is linked to Washington's move to discuss the postwar political changes with permanent members of the U.N. Security Council.
—Lena H. Sun, "U.S. Asks China to Reduce Arms Sales to Mideast," Washington Post, 13 March 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 March 1991
The British Royal Navy successfully shoots down a Chinese-built Iraqi Silkworm antiship missile during sea warfare in Operation Desert Storm.
—"British Navy Downs Iraqi Silkworm; Numerous Enemy Vessels Engaged," Aviation Week and Space Technology, 11 March, 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
20 March 1991
Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister Hisashi Owada asks China to cooperate in controlling the international trade in arms, including nuclear and chemical arms, missile technology, and conventional arms.
—"Owada Urges China to Cooperate on Arms Control," Japan, Inc. 22 March 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
27 March 1991
Chinese foreign minister Qian Qichen states, "On the question of control of missiles, recently in Tokyo, a 15-nation meeting on missile technology control regime was convened, but China did not attend that meeting. Those countries that didn't attend the meeting should not be called upon to assume corresponding obligations to an agreement reached among some other countries. "Concerning China's arms exports, China has always acted in a very prudent and responsible way, and, actually, I think I can say that China's arms sales are very, very limited. We hope that the largest weapons exporters in the world can adopt practical and effective measures of self-restraint. Now nuclear weapons proliferation is prohibited in the world. We also have in hand a convention on prohibition of biological weapons, while negotiations on a convention on prohibition of chemical weapons are also under way. However, there are no provisions concerning conventional weapons. We hope that the largest weapons exporters in the world can exercise restraint." Qian also notes that China has not signed the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) and did not attend a recent meeting in Tokyo of the 15 signatories of the agreement. "Those countries that did not attend the meeting should not be called upon to assume corresponding obligations to an agreement reached among some other countries," Qian said. U.S. Secretary of State Richard Solomon said earlier this month that "we have the missile technology control regime and the Chinese have indicated that they will honor those parameters."
—"Qian QiChen Press Conference," The British Broadcasting Corporation, 29 March 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; James L. Tyson, "China Will Ignore US Pressure to Stop Selling Its Missiles," Christian Science Monitor, 29 March 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <www.lexis-nexis.com>.
5 April 1991
U.S. officials announce they believe that China is in the process of selling Pakistan a new missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The M-11 missile—the export version of the Chinese DF-11—is believed to have range of about 180 miles and capability of carrying 'heavy payload.' U.S. intelligence agencies announce that they have spotted what appear to be a number of launch vehicles for Chinese-made M-11 ballistic missiles in Pakistan, contrary to Beijing's pledges to Washington.
— R. Jeffery Smith, "Chinese Missile Launchers Sighted in Pakistan," Washington Post, 6 April 1991; John J. Fialka, "Pakistan Seeks Chinese Missiles, US Believes" Wall Street Journal, 5 April 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>
6 April 1991
The U.S. lodges official protests with Beijing and Islamabad amid fears of a leap in the arms race in South Asia regarding the possible sale to Pakistan of a Chinese missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads. U.S. officials are unsure whether the delivery has taken place, but believe that China and Pakistan have been discussing the sale. The range of the M-11 could be increased with a reduction of the payload, making it a violation of the MTCR.
—Mark Tran, "Arms move draws protest," The Guardian (London), 6 April 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <www.lexis-nexis.com>.
25 April 1991
China denies a report that China is selling medium-range missiles to Pakistan. China also announces that it is supplying Algeria with nuclear technology but denies it is helping it produce fuel for nuclear weapons.
—David Mutch, Christian Science Monitor, 26 April 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <www.lexis-nexis.com>.
30 April 1991
White House Press Secretary Marlin Fitzwater states that President Bush does not to approve a request to license the export of U.S. satellite components to China for a Chinese domestic communications satellite, the Dong Fang Hong 3 (DFH-3). This decision is a result of concern over Chinese proliferation activities. Under sanctions contained in the Foreign Relations Authorization Act Fiscal Year 1990-91, licensing of these exports is prohibited unless the President determines it to be in the national interest.
—"Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on Restrictions on U.S. Satellite Component Exports to China," Public Papers of the President, 30 April 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
5 May 1991
Israel claims that Syria has purchased Chinese M9 missiles.
—Richard Ellis, "Syria goes on pounds 10bn shopping spree for arms," Sunday Times, 5 May 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <www.lexis-nexis.com>.
6 May 1991
President Bush bars the export of U. S. components for a Chinese domestic communications satellite. His actions stem from suspected Chinese exports of weapons of mass destruction to developing nations. The satellite in question is the Dong Fang Hong 3 (DFH-3), and the White House intends to raise its concerns "about the activities of the Chinese companies involved in Dong Fang Hong with the Chinese government." The U.S. is engaged in intensive talks with Beijing about proliferation issues aimed at persuading China to comply with internationally accepted guidelines on missile and missile technology exports. The Chinese government has pledged to be "prudent and responsible" with such sales, but the administration is upset about recent reports that China is helping Algeria build a nuclear reactor and preparing to sell ballistic missiles and technology to Pakistan.
—"China Rebuffed," Aviation Week and Space Technology, 6 May 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
7 May 1991
Chinese Ambassador to the United States Zhu Qichen says that China has long adopted a "serious, prudent and responsible attitude on the question of export of military products." He goes on to say that China stands in principle for a "just, reasonable and effective international control of sales of military products, including the sale of missiles. However, this should be worked out through comprehensive consultations on equal footing among the international community, rather than decided by a few countries." The remarks were made at a luncheon sponsored by the World Media Association.
—"Chinese Ambassador Stresses Mutual Benefits of MFN," Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 7 May 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
20 May 1991
According to U.S. intelligence sources, China is negotiating the sale of M-11 missiles, capable of carrying chemical and nuclear warheads, to Pakistan. A separate reported deal with Syria would provide with Chinese M-9 missiles, a longer-range forerunner of the M-11, by the year-end.
—Tom Post, Frank Gibney Jr., Daniel Glick, "Getting Fed up With China" Newsweek, 20 May 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
28 May 1991
President Bush announces new sanctions on China. These sanctions stipulate that: 1.) Licenses will be refused to companies that have applied to sell China 20 high-speed computers, valued at $30 million that can be used for missile flight testing; 2) As long as the United States is not satisfied that China is abiding by international regulations restricting the flow of ballistic missile and nuclear technology, licenses will not be granted to American companies seeking to take part in seven proposed satellite launches by China. No such licenses have been requested; 3) American companies will be barred from selling any missile technology or equipment to the state-run Chinese Precision Machinery Import-Export Corporation. The White House says this action is in response to the Chinese corporation's sale of missile technology and equipment to Pakistan. —Andrew Rosenthal, "Bush Renewing Trade Privileges For China, but Adds Missile Curbs," New York Times, 28 May 1991, at Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
May-June 1991
Washington asks Saudi Arabia to destroy its arsenal of Chinese made CSS-2 surface-to-surface missiles as a part of the Bush administration's Middle East arms control plan. The Saudis have ignored the request thus far.
—Leslie Susser, "Chinese Firecrackers." Jerusalem Report, 4 July 1991, at Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
27 May 1991
The Bush administration blocks high technology exports to China. The ban will stop a $30 million sale of computer work-stations, and will ban the sale of missile-related technologies as well as satellite parts. The move is in retaliation to Chinese exports of advanced weapons to Pakistan and Algeria.
—Edward Lucas, "Bush Cuts High-Tech Exports to China," Independent, 28 March 1991, at Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
5 June 1991
President Bush blocks U.S. companies from participating in further satellite launches with the People's Republic of China because the country is believed to be transferring M-11 ballistic missile technology to Pakistan.
—"Bush blocks US launchers in China" Flight International, 5 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
7 June 1991
China confirms that it will take part in a conference proposed by U.S. President George Bush aimed at controlling arms sales to the Middle East. "It's the consistent position of the Chinese government that proper, fair, practicable measures should be taken to achieve international arms control and disarmament in a comprehensive and balanced manner," the foreign ministry said. "The Chinese government agrees with President Bush's proposal," it said. "We are willing to study this important issue will all the countries concerned on an equal footing."
—Peter Riddell, "China confirms attendance at arms control conference," Agence France Press—English, 8 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
10 June 1991
Western diplomats and experts are concerned by indications that China is seeking to increase its share of the world market for missiles. The Chinese military, the experts say, may begin shipments of two new kinds of missiles to Syria and Pakistan, and perhaps to other countries as well. The new missiles, which are said to be more accurate than the Soviet-designed Scuds used by Iraq in the Persian Gulf war, are thought to be at the end of the development stage and could be deployed soon. The Missile Technology Control Regime, an agreement that China has not joined, defines medium-range missiles as those that travel approximately 188 miles. But a Chinese military encyclopedia defines a medium-range missile as one that can travel 625 miles. If that is the definition that the Chinese government is using, its promise not to sell medium-range missiles would cover neither the M-9 nor the M-11.
—Nicholas Kristof, "China said to plan new arms sale; U.S. is concerned," The New York Times, 6 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
12 June 1991
Secretary of State James A. Baker warns China that there will be "profound consequences" for Sino-U.S. relations if Beijing sells newly developed ballistic missiles to Syria and Pakistan. "We have made it clear (to Chinese leaders) that there would be potentially profound consequences for our bilateral relationship if they were to change the missile export policy that they have presented to us," Mr. Baker told a Senate appropriations sub-committee.
—"Baker Warns China Against Selling New Missiles," The New York Times, 13 June 1991; "Baker warns Beijing of 'profound consequences' of missiles sales to Paki," Agence France Press, 12 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
15 June 1991
The U.S. sends Richard Bartholomew [also referred to as Reginald Bartholomew], Undersecretary of State, to Beijing for talks on weapons proliferation, amid growing concern in the west that Chinese arms sales may lead to a destabilizing weapons race in Asia.
—Yvonne Preston, "Beijing Pressed on Arms Sales," Financial Times, 15 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
16 June 1991
Liu Huaqiu, the Chinese Vice-Foreign Minister, denies reports that China has sold ballistic missiles to Syria. But Liu confirmed the sale of what he called "short-range missiles" to Pakistan, another item of serious U.S. concern, and gave no indication that Beijing is willing to cancel or modify this agreement that "happened in the past."
—Don Oberdorfer, Lena H. Sun, "Chinese Warn U.S. About Trade Status; Beijing Rejects Conditions, Revocation," Washington Post, 16 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <www.lexis-nexis.com>.
16 June 1991
China unveils a devastating fuel-air explosive bomb as part of its range of ultra-high technology 'smart weapons' at a Paris Air Show. The move comes only days after United States Secretary of State James Baker warned China not to export high-technology weapons to Syria. China also displays their latest missiles at the show, which was attending by the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) and the China Precision Machinery Import and Export Corporation (CPMIEC).
—Adam Majendie, "China Out Arms Warning," The Observer, 16 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
16 June 1991
The White House announces that President Bush implemented a previously announced decision to impose restrictions on exports of high-performance computers and ban the transfer of technology for satellites launched on Chinese rockets. The White House says the steps are being taken because of China's missile exports. The report says that two Chinese companies had transferred missile technology to Pakistan and that the United States would impose sanctions on them—the China Precision Machinery Import-Export Corporation and the China Great Wall Industry Corporation. "We have expressed urgent concern to the Chinese government about exports of missile technology," a White House statement said.
—"Bush Calls Trade Deal for China a Step For Rights," The St. Louis Dispatch, 17 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
19 June 1991
Chinese officials inform U.S. Undersecretary of State for International Security Affairs Reginald Bartholomew that Beijing is considering joining the MTCR and NPT.
—"China said to weigh Signing International Arms Accord," New York Times, 19 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
20 June 1991
China acknowledges that it supplied short-range missiles to Pakistan. Foreign Ministry spokesman Wu Jianmen declines to name the weapons supplied to Pakistan, but said that "a very small number of short-range tactical missiles had gone to Pakistan.
—Raymond Whitaker, "Pakistan Bought Chinese Missiles," Independent, 21 June, 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
25 June 1991
Senate Majority Leader George J. Mitchell (D-Maine) unveils a "consensus" Democratic proposal that would renew most-favored-nation (MFN) trade status for China, conditioning it on improvement in China's human rights and trade practices, and mandating immediate termination if the Chinese government exports ballistic missiles to Syria, Iran or Pakistan. In addition, the bill requires that the president certify within 15 days of enactment that China has not exported "certain ballistic missiles or launchers to Syria, Iran or Pakistan." Should such sales occur in the coming year Mitchell said, MFN would be terminated immediately.
—Guy Gugliotta, "Mitchell Ties China Trade to Conditions," Washington Post, 26 June 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
1 July 1991
The State Department announces that China may be facing new sanctions as a result of missiles it sold to Pakistan. Chinese Ambassador Zhu Qizhen said in a statement a week ago that China had sold "a limited amount of conventional weapons, including a tiny number of short-range tactical missiles." The State Department says that if it is found the missiles violate restrictions made by the U.S. and the international community in 1987, then sanction would be levied.
—"U.S. Weighs Sanctions on China Arms Sales," USA Today, 2 July 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
2 July 1991
The Bush administration accuses China and North Korea of selling missiles to the Middle East by using Cyprus as a trans-shipment point. According to U.S. intelligence officials, China and North Korea use Cyprus to avoid detection by the United States.
—Bill Gertz, "China, N. Korea Secretly Deliver Missiles to the Mideast via Cyprus," Washington Times, 2 July 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
4 July 1991
Cyprus categorically denies being a transit point for Chinese and North Korean weapons headed for the Middle East. Cyprus government spokesman Akis Fantis says: "We have no indication that any M-9s or any other Chinese surface-to-surface missiles have been delivered to Syria and we have no information about the use of Cyprus as a channel or a conduit."
—"Cyprus Denies Being Arms Transit Station," The Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 4 July 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
5 July 1991
Wo Zian, an aide to Chinese Premiere Li Peng, affirms China has no intention of selling missiles to Syria. Li Peng is on a five-day Middle East diplomatic tour.
— "No Missiles for Syria, Chinese Officials says," Agence France Presse, 5 July 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
15 July 1991
Chen GuoQiang, Press Secretary of the Chinese Embassy in Washington, in an open letter, denounces allegations of arms shipments to the Middle East via Cyprus as "totally unfounded" in response to a Washington Times article dated 12 July. He says the "seemingly substantial evidence only serves all the more to confuse and mislead the American public."
—"Allegations of China's Arms Shipments through Cyprus Denounced," The Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 15 July 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
19 July 1991
President Bush pledges to make significant changes to his China policy. Among other things, Bush pledges to "ban exports of high-speed computers and satellites until China assures it will cease selling nuclear missiles."
—Elizabeth Lesly, "At Renegade Democrats Urging, Bush Makes Major Changes in China Policy," States News Service, 19 July 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
23 July 1991
Japan defends its aid to China proclaiming that such assistance does not violate Japan's policy of not providing aid to nations threatening world peace by exporting arms or nuclear weapons. Foreign Ministry spokesman TaiZo Watanabe was responding to a question as to whether or not China's sales of long-range missiles to Pakistan and its plan to export missiles to Syria violated Japanese policy. "The Response of the Chinese government was positive in principle and that's something we are satisfied with," he went on to say.
—"Japan Defends China Aid as not Breaching Antiarms Rules," Japan Economic Newswire, 23 July, 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 August 1991
Chinese Prime Minister Li Peng announces that China is ready in principle to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Under the terms of the treaty, China will be the fifth and final nuclear weapon state to sign the NPT, after the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, and France.
—T.R. Reid, "China Plans to Sign Pact on A-Arms; Premier Signals Step on Non-Proliferation," Washington Post, 11 August 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
15 September 1991
The Bush administration imposes sanctions against China. Diplomats say that the sanctions are intended "as a means of convincing the Chinese that it is not in their interest to be selling ballistic missiles and nuclear technology." China Great Wall Industry Corporation and China Precision Machinery Import-Export Company are barred from doing business in the U.S.
—"Bush Imposes Sanctions," Mednews-Middle East Defense News, 15 September 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
5 October 1991
The Chinese Foreign Ministry denies a report from the Institute of International and Strategic Studies (IISS), a U.K.-based think tank, that China sold ballistic missiles to Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia last year. The Foreign Ministry calls the claims "totally groundless."
—"Beijing Denies Delivering Missiles to Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia," Agence France Presse-English, 5 October 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
13 October 1991
The Sunday Times reports that Western intelligence sources have discovered Iran is purchasing factories from China to manufacture a new generation of ballistic missiles. The report notes that Syria has completed a deal with China to purchase M-9 missiles with a range of 600km.
—James Adams, "Syria and Iran shop around for missile factories," Sunday Times, 13 October 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
15 October 1991
China denies a report by the Sunday Times newspaper in London that China is negotiating to supply Iran and Syria with factories designed to produce ballistic missiles. A Foreign Ministry spokesman labeled the report as "nonsense."
—"China Denies Missile Deal with Iran, Syria," Agence France Presse-English, 15 October 1991, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
18 October 1991
China, along with the other four members of the U.N Security Council, agrees to common guidelines for arms export controls. The guidelines take into account the self-defense needs and the threat confronting a recipient nation, but aim to deny exports which would aggravate any conflict, increase tension in a particular region, encourage terrorism, or undermine the economy of a recipient state.
—Victor Mallet, "Big five arms exporters agree rules on sales," Financial Times, 19 October 1991, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
30 October 1993
U.S. officials and nuclear experts accuse China of selling materials for nuclear bombs and the missiles capable of delivering them to Middle East countries. Gary Miholin of the Wisconsin Project, a U.S.-based research institute, claims the Chinese are supplying M-9 and M-11 ballistic missiles under a 10-year military technology transfer agreement between Beijing and Tehran, which was signed last year. In additional, Milholin claims that the Chinese are also helping Iran build a nuclear reactor at Esfahan and training Iranian nuclear engineers.
—Simon Tisdal, "China 'helps Iran to make N-bomb,'" The Guardian, 31 October 1993, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
14 November 1991
The Chinese Foreign Ministry announces that China is now willing to talk with countries regarding concerns about China's missile exports. The announcement comes one day before U.S. Secretary of State James Baker is scheduled to arrive in China for talks.
—"China Prepared to Hold Consultation on Missile Sales," Japan Economic Newswire, 14 November 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
16 November 1991
China carries out a missile exercise in the Yellow Sea. Chinese news services report that China conducted a 37-hour drill from an unnamed base in north east Shandong Province. 56 air-to-air missiles were fired in 41 sorties.
—"China Carries out Rare Air-to-Air Missile Drill in Yellow Sea," Agence France Presse-English, 18 November 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
17 November 1991
James Baker states that China agrees to abide by MTCR Guidelines in return for the lifting of sanctions over the sale of high-speed computers and satellites. Under the agreement, Beijing pledges to apply MTCR guidelines to "any export of missiles and related technology." Baker stated that he understands this to apply to the M-9 missiles to Syria and the M-11 missile sales to Pakistan. The Chinese promise is conditioned on the U.S. agreeing to lift sanctions on two Chinese companies. China also agrees to propose ratification of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty to the People's Congress by the end of the year.
—"China Agrees to Arms Pact," Herald Sun, 18 November 1991, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Agence France Presse, Hobart Mercury, 20 November 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
18 November 1991
China announces that it will only consider abiding by regulations in the MTCR if the U.S lifts sanctions on Chinese companies and ends its freeze on U.S. computer and satellite exports.
—Nancy Dunne, "Sanctions 'if Beijing fails to protect copyright,'" The Financial Times, 19 November 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
21 November 1991
China states it would accede to a pact covering sales of medium-range missiles if the US lifted sanctions imposed on two Chinese companies in June.
—David Mutch, "Asia and the Pacific," Christian Science Monitor, 22 November, 1991, <www.lexis-nexis.com>
November 1991
China displays Silkworm missiles, target drones, electronic instruments, and other defense equipment at the Dubai 91 Aerospace and Defence Exhibition. Represented at the arms show are China Great Wall Industry Corporation and China Precision Machinery Import & Export Company, both companies that were sanctioned by the Bush administration in September. NORINCO displays a powerful new multiple launch rocket system, the WM-80, which officials say is being marketed "throughout the Middle East." The new system will be capable of ripple launching eight long-range rockets within 40 seconds, to distances of 80 kilometers. NORINCO claims a CEP for the WM-80 of 1.5% - meaning that under optimal conditions, rockets fired at maximum range will stray 1200 meters from target.
—"Chinese Sell Jammers, new MLRs," Mednews- Middle East Defense News, 25 November 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
9 December 1991
The U.N votes 150-0 to establish an international registry of conventional arms transfers of tanks, warplanes, missiles, warships and artillery. China, as well as many of its major arms clients, is absent for the vote.
—Peter James Spielmann, "U.N. to Establish Conventional Arms Registry," The Associated Press, 9 December 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
12 December 1991
Central Intelligence Agency Director Robert Gates says in an interview with the Washington Post that China is supplying nuclear and missile technology to the third world, but that China "occasionally backed off," under U.S. pressure. He said that China is motivated by money to make the sales.
—"Gates Says CIA to Focus on Unconventional Arms Buildup," Agence France Presse-English, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
12 December 1991
Arkansas Governor and presidential candidate Bill Clinton criticizes the Bush administration's policy on China, citing China's poor record with missile and technology exports as examples of its overall failure.
—Governor Bill Clinton, "A New Covenant for American Security," Federal News Service, 12 December 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
14 December 1991
Indian Foreign Minister Madhavsinh Solanki "underlined the inherent danger in (Chinese) inputs to Pakistan's nuclear weapon's capacity and missiles technology" in talks with China with Chinese foreign minister Qian Qichen. Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Aftab Seth describes the talks as "candid," reiterating that India is concerned with Chinese assistance to Pakistan "in areas that could affect our security and hasten an arms race in the region."
—"India Warns China of Danger in Selling Arms to Pakistan," The Toronto Star, 15 December 1991, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
30 December 1991
China agrees to join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. China is the last major nuclear power to sign the treaty.
—"China to Sign Pact," Financial Times, 30 December 1991, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
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