PARIS, France: The recent launch of a Chinese intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific has ignited significant regional concerns, especially among neighboring countries.
French Polynesia reported that the missile landed perilously close to its exclusive economic zone, marking a notable moment as this was China’s first such test in four decades. The incident has led to widespread protests from countries in the vicinity, revealing the geopolitical tensions that continue to escalate in the region.
China had publicly announced the missile trial, clarifying that the missile was equipped with a dummy warhead. However, this lack of secrecy did little to quell the anxiety among its neighbors. Japan, caught off-guard by the launch, expressed its concerns about not receiving prior notification. Taiwan also joined the chorus of discontent, issuing a formal condemnation. Meanwhile, Australia sought an explanation from Beijing, and New Zealand described the test as “unwelcome and concerning.”
French Polynesia’s President Moetai Brotherson indicated that the missile fell near the Marquesas Islands, an area within its exclusive economic zone. While the French authorities claimed they had received notification of the test from China, the mixed reactions highlight the fragile state of regional security. The Pentagon noted that the United States had received some advance warning, which it regarded as a positive step toward preventing miscalculations that could escalate tensions.
Analysts suggest that the missile test was likely conducted using a Dongfeng-31 AG missile, first showcased in a military parade in 2017. This development underscores China’s increasing focus on enhancing its nuclear capabilities and expanding its military budget.
According to Pentagon estimates, China had over 500 operational nuclear warheads as of May 2023, with projections indicating this could rise to more than 1,000 by 2030.
China’s defence ministry has characterized the missile launch as a “routine arrangement” within its annual training schedule, denying that it was aimed at any specific country. However, some experts interpret the test as a strategic signal of China’s military strength, aimed particularly at the United States and its allies.
As tensions between China and the U.S. persist, this missile test serves as a stark reminder of the shifting dynamics in global military power and the ongoing challenges in maintaining stability in the region.
