By Deutsche Welle (Asia) | Created at 2024-09-25 12:11:21 | Updated at 2024-09-30 05:20:11
4 days ago
China on Wednesday said that it successfully test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, increasing concerns over security in the region.
The missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was launched by the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force at 8:44 a.m. Beijing time (0044 GMT) on Wednesday, China's Defense Ministry said in a statement.
The ICBM, according to the ministry, "fell into expected sea areas." It was a "routine arrangement in our annual training plan" and not directed at any country or target, the Defense Ministry added.
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The launch "effectively tested the performance of weapons and equipment and the training level of the troops, and achieved the expected goal," according to a report by state news agency Xinhua.
China claims launch was announced in advance
China "informed the countries concerned in advance," according to a Xinhua report, which did not clarify the path of the missile or where in the "high seas of the Pacific Ocean" it fell.
A Japanese Coast Guard official said it was notified by China on Monday for falling "space debris." Japan on Wednesday put out a warning for vessels that the debris could impact three zones in the South China Sea and the Pacific.
However, Japan's Yoshimasa Hayashi, a top government spokesperson, said China did not inform Japan that it would launch an intercontinental ballistic missile.
"There was no notice from the Chinese side in advance" about the ICBM launch, he said.
mfi/wmr (AFP, AP, Reuters)
