China installs island missiles

CHINA has installed anti-ship cruise missiles and surface-toair missile systems on three of its outposts in the South China Sea, US news network CNBC reports, citing sources with direct knowledge of US intelligence reports.

The move, if confirmed, would mark the first Chinese missile deployments in the Spratly Islands.

The report says the missiles were moved to Fiery Cross Reef, Subi Reef and Mischief Reef within the past 30 days.

The US Defence Department declined to comment, as did Chinese officials.