China’s military conducted a test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Wednesday morning, marking its first public display of this capability in decades.
The missile, equipped with a dummy warhead, was launched at 8:44 a.m. local time and successfully fell into designated sea areas in the Pacific Ocean, according to a statement from Beijing’s Ministry of National Defense. The ministry described the test as a routine part of its annual training plan, emphasizing that it complied with international law and was not aimed at any specific country.
This launch is viewed by analysts as significant, potentially being China’s first publicly acknowledged ICBM test since May 21, 1980. Defense Minister Minoru Kihara of Japan confirmed that his country was aware of the launch but did not clarify whether they had received prior notification.
Tensions are escalating in the Indo-Pacific region, with China expanding its military capabilities while the U.S. strengthens alliances with Japan and South Korea.
The Pentagon has warned that China’s ICBM arsenal is rapidly growing, with projections suggesting that Beijing could possess over 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030. This launch underscores the ongoing military buildup and strategic posturing occurring in the region.
Peoplesmind