Beijing made it known for the first time on Wednesday ( Sep 25 ) that China had successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile ( ICBM ) into the Pacific Ocean, which is likely to raise international concern about the country’s nuclear arsenal.
The ICBM, carrying a dummy warhead, was launched by the People’s Liberation Army ( PLA ) Rocket Force at 8.44am Beijing time ( 0044 GMT ) on Wednesday and “fell into expected sea areas”, the Chinese defence ministry said in a statement, adding it was a “routine arrangement in our annual training plan” and not directed at any country or target.
China “informed the countries concerned in progress,” according to a separate Xinhua review, which did not specify the missile’s location or exact location in the “high lakes of the Pacific Ocean” it fell into.
The release “effectively evaluated the effectiveness of weapons and equipment and the army ‘ level of training, and achieved the desired goal,” according to Xinhua.
The PLA Rocket Force, which oversees the government’s standard and nuclear weapons, has been tasked with modernising China’s nuclear troops to deter innovations such as improved United States missile defences, better security capabilities, and strengthened alliances.
Some analysts, but, argue the rate of China’s atomic build-up goes beyond a trustworthy minimum deterrent.
Beijing says it adheres to a” no second use” plan.