Chinese state media reported on the 6th that the Chinese Navy had launched a 'submarine-launched strategic missile' in the Pacific Ocean.
According to Xinhua News Agency, at 12:01 on July 6, a Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy strategic nuclear submarine successfully launched a submarine-launched strategic missile carrying a simulated training warhead into relevant international waters of the Pacific Ocean, with the missile accurately landing in the designated sea area.
The report stated that this missile test was a routine arrangement as part of China’s annual military training, and relevant countries had been notified in advance. It complies with international law and common practice, and is not targeted at any specific country or objective.
According to foreign media, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Peters issued a statement that afternoon saying, “Earlier today, China informed us of its plan to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile into the South Pacific. Although we have long expressed concern over such activities, China sought to conduct the test within just a few hours of notifying us.”
Peters emphasized, “Like other Pacific neighbors, we do not wish China to treat the South Pacific as a missile testing ground.”
Australian Defense Minister Marles also confirmed this, saying that the Australian government had received prior notification from China. “This is a long-range missile test, and any action that undermines stability, peace, and security in the Pacific region deeply concerns us.”