China and India emerge as top importers of weapons systems

Key points: * China and India emerged as the top two importers of weapons systems in the world between 2000 and 2004, importing goods valued at US$11.75 billion and US$8.5 billion respectively, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. * Figures follow analysts' research that indicates the emerging Asian economies are preparing to increase defence expenditure in future years.

Not to great a surprise really, but when you consider that the US defence budget is going to top $1 trillion you begin to see why it is predict that US dfence spending will soon equal the rest of the world combined

US defence budget will equal ROW combined "within 12 months"