While China did not identify the ICBM tested on Wednesday, the latest iteration it is known to have is the Dongfeng-41 ( DF-41 ), unveiled in 2019 during celebrations to mark the 70th anniversary of the PRC. With an estimated functional range of 12, 000km to 15, 000km, the DF-41 may be capable of reaching the US mainland.
Dr. Newsham from the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies described testing an ICBM at this time as a” slap in the face” for the US, especially given Washington’s repeated demands for lessening tensions over contested issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea.
” In many ways, Beijing’s weapon release is reminiscent of North Korea’s provocations, it serves no just military screening purposes but also aims to create mental deterrence and present a strong message”, he said.  ,
Washington urged Beijing to “act with caution and avoid using Taiwan’s change as a justification for controversial or aggressive steps” during the opening of Taiwanese President William Lai on May 20.
China has often deployed ships and aircraft past the Taiwan Strait’s median line, which was once used as an illegal border between the two parties. Following a number of US arms sales to the area, the US has been accused of “interfering in its home matters.”
On the South China Sea problem, the US, during a high-level military appointment this fortnight, urged China to “reconsider its use of risky, aggressive, and possibly escalatory tactics in the region and beyond”.
Beijing has repeatedly argued in reply that it is only defending its rights in the frayed waters.
During a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, some observers have speculated that the timing might be used to offer Beijing some liquidity.
Both leaders will respond “in the coming month,” according to a statement released late in August from the White House. This would be the leaders ‘ second visit since their in-person gathering in California in November 2023.
According to Taiwanese PLA professional Lin Ying-yu,” they are signaling that China has the capability to strike US territory with radioactive weapons.” In the future Xi and Biden visit,” This show of force may be intended to give them more bargaining power,” Biden said.
Dr. Loo of RSIS asserts that the most recent release is a reflection of China’s desire to show its military skill.  ,
The timing of the test is important because it serves as both a demo of China’s corporate deterrence and as a reminder to the world that it is keeping up its military might, he said.
In the upcoming years and decades, President Xi Jinping has established various milestones for China’s military forces. By 2035, the government should have been fully modernized, effectively bringing its skill and abilities up to date with modern technology. By mid-century, it should be capable of fighting and winning war.
The examination comes just one week before China’s 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China ( PRC )’s ( PRC ) founding on October 1 ).  ,
When asked if this could be a element, Dr Loo said it was possible.
Beijing has recently increased its nuclear arsenal and increased defense spending, with the Pentagon advising in October of last year that China’s armory was expanding more quickly than it had anticipated.
China possessed more than 500 operating nuclear warheads as of May 2023, according to a Pentagon statement released last yr. It is projected to exceed that number by 2030.
That compares to 1, 770 and 1, 710 operating weapons deployed by the US and Russia both. By 2030, according to the Pentagon, the majority of Beijing’s weapons will likely be stored at higher preparation degrees.
Beijing has consistently adhered to a” no second apply” nuclear weapons legislation since launching its first nuclear blast in 1964. The sole two nuclear powers now fully supporting this position are China and India.