Houston wants China to explain military boost
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The chief of the Australian Defence Force says he wants China to explain its military build-up.
Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston says China has had a booming economy and can afford to spend on defence.
He says it is understandable the country would want to modernise, but he is concerned with what the long term plan may be.
When pressed on specifics, Air Chief Marshal Houston said China shooting down one of its satellites nearly two years ago was not very helpful.
He says there is a great relationship with China and he has told his Chinese counterparts that they could be a little bit more forthcoming on their plans.
He says when Australia releases its defence white paper in the middle of next year, he will go there and explain Australia's plans to the Chinese.
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