China conducts first public test launch of intercontinental ballistic missile
China conducts first public test launch of intercontinental ballistic missile
The Facts
The People's Liberation Army's Rocket Force, which oversees the modernization of China's conventional and nuclear missiles, on Wednesday successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
According to the Chinese defense ministry, the missile carried a dummy warhead and landed in the Pacific Ocean. The ministry stated that the launch was part of its regular yearly training schedule and was not aimed at any specific country.
The Spin
China launched an ICBM on Wednesday, just as world leaders convened in New York for the UN General Assembly. It was a blatant demonstration of China's military strength. China is currently working to expand its nuclear arsenal, and the missile launched could be a newer generation of ICBMs that have never been tested before in the Pacific. Beijing is displaying to the world that it can launch strategic weapons against any country. However, Washington and its allies will not succumb to intimidation.
China has the complete right to test ICBMs. It is hardly anything to be upset about, considering that it is within China's sovereign right to do so. China has previously stated that it is actively developing its nuclear arsenal, which requires testing to ensure its functionality. The launch was part of a military drill in which the PLA evaluated munitions and personnel readiness. The ICBM launch was in accordance with international law, and China announced the test well in advance. It is important to remember that the test was not targeted at any one country.
