- China's missile test triggered swift condemnation from the US, Australia, and New Zealand, who accused Beijing of "destabilising" the region, while China described it as "routine".
- The missile was likely a JL-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile with range exceeding 10,000 km, allowing Chinese submarines to threaten targets in the central United States from coastal waters.
- The test occurred hours after Australia and Fiji signed a mutual defense pact (Ocean of Peace alliance) and coincided with the Nato summit on July 7, though some experts noted tests are planned months in advance.
- Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale criticized the test, saying it was "not something a friend does".
- Experts said the test signaled China's desire for equal partnership with the US and lifted the curtain on a "new era of massive nuclear submarine expansion", while also sending a "clear signal" to the US and Taiwan.
Australia and other Pacific nations have condemned China's recent missile test, which Beijing described as 'routine.' The test, conducted by a nuclear submarine, has raised significant concerns regarding regional security and China's military intentions.12
Leaders from the US, Australia, and New Zealand swiftly criticized the test, accusing Beijing of 'destabilising' the region. Matthew Wale, Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, stated, 'China is a good friend of Solomon Islands, but this is not something a friend does.' The lack of prior notification to regional neighbors has further fueled tensions, with many questioning whether the US was informed.8
Experts have expressed alarm over China's military and nuclear buildup, highlighting the potential implications of the missile test. Lyle Morris, a senior fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, noted that China is 'sending a pretty clear signal' to the US and Taiwan.
The missile, likely a JL-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile, has a range exceeding 10,000 kilometers, allowing Chinese submarines to threaten targets deep within the United States without leaving their coastal waters. Su Tzu-yun from Taiwan's Institute for National Defence and Security Research emphasized the strategic implications of this capability.34
The timing of the test coincided with a defense commitment between Australia and Fiji, suggesting a calculated move by China to assert its military presence in the region amidst growing alliances among Pacific nations.
“The missile was likely a JL-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile with a range exceeding 10,000 kilometers, capable of threatening the central United States. The test came hours after Australia and Fiji signed a mutual defense pact, though experts note tests are planned months in advance.”
The Guardian
