Wed Sep 25 03:38:02 UTC 2024: ## China Tests Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, Sparking Concerns About Nuclear Build-Up

**BEIJING** – China has conducted a successful test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, raising international concerns about the country’s growing nuclear arsenal. The launch, which took place on Wednesday, was publicly acknowledged by the Chinese defense ministry, who described it as a routine training exercise.

The missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was launched by the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force at 08:44 a.m. Beijing time (0044 GMT) and landed in designated waters. The Chinese government informed relevant countries in advance of the test.

While China maintains that the launch was not directed at any specific country, the test comes amid rising tensions with the US over Taiwan and concerns regarding China’s nuclear ambitions.

Analysts have noted that the pace of China’s nuclear build-up surpasses a “credible minimum deterrence,” with the Pentagon estimating China will have over 1,000 warheads by 2030, compared to the US’s 1,770 and Russia’s 1,710.

China has been criticized for its opaque nuclear program, and its recent cancellation of nuclear talks with the US over arms sales to Taiwan has further strained relations.

The ICBM test comes as Taiwan reports increased Chinese military activity around the island, including the deployment of fighter jets and drones. This has heightened tensions in the region, as China continues to assert its claim over the democratically-governed island.

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