China's ballistic missile test in South Pacific raises regional concerns
Summary
China's navy launched a long-range ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine in the South Pacific, carrying a non-explosive test warhead. The launch is part of annual training and follows international law but raised concerns among countries in the region, including Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.Key Facts
- The missile test was conducted on Monday by China's navy in the South Pacific.
- The missile carried a dummy warhead, meaning it was not armed with explosives.
- This was China's first Pacific missile test since 1980 and the first in two years overall.
- China stated the launch was routine training, not targeting any country, and followed international rules.
- Australia, Japan, and New Zealand criticized the test, saying it threatens regional security.
- The test took place within the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone, established by the Treaty of Rarotonga, which prohibits nuclear weapons in the area.
- China informed New Zealand only hours before the test and did not notify the United States in advance.
- Experts say the missile launch signals China’s growing military power and its expanding nuclear deterrent beyond land-based missiles.
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