Microsoft Update requires Internet Explorer?

After a MS update error, I went to update.microsoft.com to get a better look at what updates were recommended.
I was using Mozilla Firefox, and instead of reaching Microsoft’s Update site, I was given a page stating that the update page is not available unless you are using at least MS Internet Explorer 5.
Of course, there was a directive that you could go to the download page (link was provided) and look for the updates you need.
Is it just me, or does this reek of Microsoft’s past antitrust transgressions with Internet Explorer?
Or is it a non-issue since both browsers are free anyway?