China has defended its recent launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, calling it a “legitimate and routine” action amid protests from neighboring countries. This launch, the first of its kind by China in four decades, involved a missile carrying a dummy warhead.

Beijing’s defense ministry stated that the test aimed to assess the weapon’s performance and was part of regular military procedures. Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang emphasized that China’s nuclear policy remains defensive, stable, and predictable, aiming only to test weapon and training capabilities.

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However, the launch has raised concerns in the region. Japan criticized China for not providing advance notice of the test, while Taiwan issued a “solemn condemnation,” highlighting regional anxieties about Beijing’s military activities. Despite the backlash, China maintains that its nuclear stance remains defensive, reinforcing that the test does not signal a shift in policy. 

This rare missile test underscores growing regional tensions and reflects ongoing challenges in managing military transparency and communication between China and its neighbors.