By South China Morning Post | Created at 2024-09-28 14:02:39 | Updated at 2024-09-30 09:33:25
1 day ago
China’s missile intercept test near the Indian border is a clear message of deterrence for its neighbour, observers say, as the two sides step up diplomatic talks over their long-running territorial dispute.
The test was part of a live-fire exercise involving surface-to-air missile operations on the Karakoram Plateau, state news agency Xinhua reported on August 29.
It was conducted by the People’s Liberation Army Xinjiang Military District, which is responsible for the Chinese side of the border in the western region.
A subsonic cruise missile was successfully intercepted at an altitude of 5,300 metres (17,390 feet) for the first time during the exercise, showing that the interceptor missile was stable and effective in harsh conditions, according to the report.
The specific location of the test was not disclosed, nor is it known when the test took place, but analysts say its proximity to the border suggested it was part of a deterrence strategy.
