China Fires Long-Range Missile into Pacific Ocean in Rare Test

China test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, marking the first such launch in over 40 years, amid its growing nuclear arsenal.

The Pentagon’s report highlights China’s intensified development of missile and nuclear capabilities, raising concerns about transparency and regional security.

This missile test occurs in the context of heightened Chinese military activities in the region, including airspace and territorial violations, which have alarmed neighboring countries.

China announced that it had test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean on Wednesday, marking the first such launch in over 40 years as the country expands its nuclear arsenal. The ICBM, carrying a dummy warhead, successfully landed in designated sea areas, according to China’s Defense Ministry. They clarified that the launch was part of the military’s routine annual training and complied with international laws, with no specific country or target in mind. While China claimed to have notified relevant nations beforehand, Japan refuted this, stating they had not received prior notice.

The Pentagon’s annual report on China’s military highlighted concerns over China’s growing missile and nuclear capabilities, particularly with new ICBM developments that are expected to significantly bolster its nuclear missile forces. China’s lack of transparency and its expanding military advancements are raising alarms for Japan and the global community.

Although China has previously disclosed short-range ballistic missile drills, the public acknowledgment of an ICBM test is highly unusual. The last time China conducted such a test over the Pacific Ocean was in May 1980. This latest test is notable because the missile landed in the ocean, unlike previous tests that saw warheads land in western China.

While specifics about the type of ICBM used were not disclosed, it is suspected that the missile could have been one of China’s most advanced models, such as the DF-31 or DF-41. The missile’s flight path, potentially over Guam, a U.S. military base, raised concerns, though Guam’s Homeland Security Office of Civil Defense reported no immediate threat to Guam or the Marianas.

This missile test comes amid increasing Chinese military activity in the region, including airspace violations, intrusions into Japanese territorial waters, and military operations near Taiwan, causing heightened concerns for neighboring nations and the broader international community.

Manish BL