The U.S. says it has begun deploying the first parts of a controversial missile defense system in South Korea, according to the BBC.
The Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense system (Thaad) is designed to protect against threats from North Korea, the BBC reported.
The move to begin installing the system comes a day after the North launched four ballistic missiles, breaking international sanctions.
But the U.S.-South Korean arrangement has angered many in North around the region, including China.
Chinese foreign spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday that China resolutely opposed its deployment.
South Korean media said operations to install a Thaad battery had begun on Monday, with some parts flown from the U.S. to an air base near Seoul. A statement from the U.S. military confirmed that the ”first elements” of the system had been sent to South Korea.
South Korea`s Yonhap news agency, quoting a military official, said the system could be operational ”as early as April.”
