China has successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) carrying a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean, marking its first such test in international waters since 1980.
The missile was launched on Wednesday morning as part of China’s “routine” and “annual” military training, according to Beijing’s defense ministry.
While the specifics of the missile type and flight path were not disclosed, Chinese state media noted that neighbouring countries were informed in advance. Analysts expressed surprise at the test, calling it a significant and rare event, as China’s missile tests are typically conducted domestically.
The missile test comes amid heightened tensions between China and some regional neighbours, particularly US client states Japan and the Philippines.
The Pentagon estimates China’s nuclear arsenal has over 500 operational warheads, and the country is expected to significantly increase its stockpile in the coming years.
China launched an ICBM toward the Pacific Ocean with a mock warhead for the 1st time in decades: pic.twitter.com/hP1Kbbsim7
— Carl Zha (@CarlZha) September 25, 2024
Of course the next round of half wits in the US wont get the message……
This is exactly what I thought would happen.