AI Generated Image
China Test Fires Long-Range Ballistic Missile in the Pacific
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- China conducted its first long-range ballistic missile test in two years, launching from a nuclear-powered submarine and sending a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean.
- The missile reportedly landed accurately in the designated area, with Chinese authorities stating the test was not aimed at any specific country or target.
- The launch coincided with Australia and Fiji announcing a mutual defense treaty and regional security alliance, seen as efforts to counter China's influence in the Pacific.
- Regional governments were warned prior to the missile test, reflecting heightened sensitivities following a similar Chinese ICBM test near French Polynesia in September 2024.
- The 2024 test had raised alarms as it was the first public Chinese intercontinental ballistic missile test in the Pacific region in over 40 years.
