Can China now strike US from sea? Beijing tests nuclear-capable missile that can…, why is the world concerned?

China has carried out a new test of a long-range ballistic missile launched from a submarine, raising concerns in the United States and several countries in the Indo-Pacific region. According to experts, the test shows that China is expanding its ability to launch nuclear-capable missiles not only from land but also from the sea, increasing its long-range strike capability.

Reports said the missile was launched into the Pacific Ocean with a dummy (non-nuclear) warhead. Such tests are considered rare for China. Two years ago, Beijing conducted its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test over international waters in more than four decades when it fired a land-based missile near French Polynesia.

Experts believe the latest test is another sign of China’s rapidly modernising military. It also highlights Beijing’s efforts to strengthen its ability to strike targets as far away as the US mainland, even as both countries continue attempts to improve diplomatic ties.

What did the US say about the missile test?

The United States strongly criticised the launch. A US State Department spokesperson said that while Washington is trying to stop the spread of nuclear weapons around the world, China is moving in the opposite direction by rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal without enough transparency.

The comments come after the expiration of the New START nuclear arms control treaty between the US and Russia. Washington had earlier proposed including China in a future arms control agreement, but Beijing rejected the idea.

China, however, defended the launch. A Chinese Navy spokesperson said the missile test was part of the country’s routine annual military training and that relevant countries had been informed in advance.

Why is timing important?

The test took place on the same day Australia and Fiji signed a major defence agreement. Although experts believe the timing is likely a coincidence because missile tests are planned well in advance, the launch comes at a time of growing strategic competition in the Pacific region.