Less expensive weapons serve foreign buyers

Ballistic, cruise missile sales banned; rocket launchers meet market needs

Foreign arms purchasers can forget about getting their hands on Chinese-made ballistic and cruise missiles, such as those displayed in the Sept 3 Victory parade, because although they are extremely powerful and of great military use, a host of statutory obstacles prevent overseas sales, according to a military expert.

Potential buyers need not feel frustrated, though, because business-savvy Chinese arms manufacturers have prepared a number of alternatives - multiple rocket launchers that are equally formidable and more affordable.