National missile defense makes intuitive sense. The true costs of a national missile defense far outweigh its potential benefits. Opponents of a U.S. national missile defense generally focus on its deleterious effects on our relationship with Russia. This is surely a critical issue. But a U.S. missile defense may have even more profound implications for our relationship with China and ultimately for all of Asia.
China has arguably the least aggressive posture of any nuclear state.
China maintains an arsenal of about 20 ICBMs. They are liquid-fueled, requiring hours to fuel after a launch decision is made. China deploys these missiles without warheads, further decreasing launch readiness. China acquired a nuclear capability in the 1960s largely to counter potential U.S. strong-arm tactics. Its minimal nuclear forces are intended to deter nuclear aggression against China rather than to serve as offensive strategic assets.