• US military warns of imminent Chinese attack on the island • Ties strain as China deploys 1,000 missiles opposite Taiwan

This article is more than 10 years old

This article is more than 10 years old

US military officials said today they would provide Taiwan with weapons to protect itself from a possible Chinese attack, despite Beijing's warning that such sales could lead to conflict.

The officials told a congressional hearing that China was preparing for a fight against the island.

The military build-up, which includes 1,000 ballistic missiles deployed opposite Taiwan, is in contrast to the improved ties between the rivals since the 2008 election of Taiwan president Ma Ying-jeou.

The comments follow China's announcement that it intercepted a missile during a test of new technology.