China Conducts First ICBM Test in Pacific Ocean in Over 40 Years

China has officially announced the successful launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, a development that raises alarms among neighboring countries. The launch took place on Wednesday at 8:44 a.m. local time and was said to involve a “dummy warhead,” according to the Chinese defense ministry.

The missile reportedly landed in “expected areas” of the Pacific. Reports from Japan’s 47news indicated that the missile fell south of Hawaii, heightening regional concerns regarding China’s military activities.

China characterized this missile test as a “routine” exercise, integrated into its annual training schedule. However, analysts noted that tests of this nature have not occurred outside of Chinese airspace in several years, making this event particularly significant.

The last known instance of China firing an ICBM into the Pacific occurred in May 1980, marking a long gap since similar military demonstrations. While Chinese officials stated that relevant countries were notified before the test, Yoshimasa Hayashi, a spokesperson for the Japanese government, stated that they had received no advance warning from China.

This missile launch emerges amidst increasing tensions in the region, particularly regarding China’s expanding nuclear capabilities. A recent report from the Pentagon suggested that China’s operational nuclear warhead stockpile has surged to around 500, with predictions of surpassing 1,000 warheads by 2030.

Experts, such as Hans M Kristensen from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, indicated that “China is expanding its nuclear arsenal faster than any other country.” This arms race is underscored by China’s recent decision to halt arms control discussions with the United States, a move attributed to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan.

The issue of Taiwan has remained a contentious point for Beijing. Since declaring independence from mainland China in 1949, Taiwan has been viewed by the Chinese government as a breakaway province. China maintains that it has the right to take military action should Taiwan not submit to its control.

Analysts surmise that the missile test serves multiple purposes. Ali Wyne, a senior research and advocacy advisor at the Crisis Group, suggested that China seeks to showcase its military advancements in response to the United States strengthening its alliances in Asia. The timing of the launch is particularly telling, as it coincides with the upcoming 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and precedes an anticipated phone call between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in the near future.

Furthermore, amid ongoing upheaval within the upper ranks of the People’s Liberation Army’s Rocket Force, the launch could also be an attempt by China to convey that its military readiness remains robust.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the implications of this missile test will be closely monitored by international observers and governments alike. The dynamics of power and security in the Asia-Pacific region remain precarious, and actions such as this one by China are likely to exacerbate existing tensions.