China Successfully Launches ICBM into Pacific Ocean
BEIJING — In a bold move, China announced the successful launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) carrying a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean.
The ICMB took flight at 08:44 local time (04:44 GMT) on Wednesday, landing in the expected sea areas, according to Beijing’s defense ministry. This test launch was described as “routine” and part of the country’s “annual training”.
While the type of missile and its flight path remained unclear, Chinese state media assured that Beijing had informed the relevant countries in advance.
Analysts were taken aback by Beijing’s characterization of the test as “routine”, especially since the last similar test occurred back in 1980.
Typically, China conducts its nuclear weapon tests within its borders, firing ICBMs west into the Taklamakan Desert in the Xinjiang region. Therefore, this recent launch into international waters marks the first of its kind since 1980.
“Unless I’m missing something, I think this is essentially the first time this has happened – and been announced as such – in a long time,” said Ankit Panda, a nuclear weapons specialist at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
Japan’s defense ministry reported no damage to its vessels following the launch, but emphasized the need for vigilance and monitoring of Chinese military movements.
When China conducted a similar test in May 1980, the ICBM traveled 9,070km before landing in the Pacific, involving 18 Chinese naval ships in one of China’s most significant naval missions.
“The launch is a powerful signal intended to intimidate everyone,” remarked Drew Thompson, a visiting research fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore.
As tensions persist between China and various countries in the region, including Japan, the Philippines, and Taiwan, the launch is seen as a strategic move to assert dominance and influence.
China’s increasing assertiveness in the region, coupled with recent military drills and missile firings, has raised concerns among neighboring countries.
With a growing nuclear arsenal estimated to surpass 1,000 warheads by 2030, China’s military capabilities continue to be a focal point of international scrutiny.
