The United States military tracked a Chinese submarine test-launching an unarmed intercontinental-range ballistic missile that landed in the southern Pacific Ocean on Monday.
The test comes amid heightened focus on global nuclear proliferation. Following the launch, the United States issued a statement addressing the military exercise and raising questions about the transparency of Beijing’s expanding weapons program.
“At a time when the United States is working harder than ever to prevent nuclear proliferation, China is doing the opposite,” said Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, spokesperson for the U.S. government. “Beijing’s rapid and opaque nuclear weapons buildup is of great concern to the region and the world.”
The missile fired by China is capable of carrying nuclear warheads, though U.S. officials confirmed this specific test was conducted with an unarmed payload. The exact flight path and the precise impact location in the southern Pacific were not immediately detailed by military tracking sources.
In response to the test, the U.S. called for increased communication and formalized transparency protocols from the Chinese government regarding its long-range missile programs.
“We continue to urge China to engage in meaningful arms control discussions and commit to a regularized notification arrangement for all intercontinental-range ballistic missile and space launches consistent with commitments made by all other P5 members,” Pigott said, referring to the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.
Following the launch, U.S. officials reconfirmed their regional security agreements, stating that the United States remains steadfast in its defense commitments to its allies and partners in the Pacific region. Beijing has not yet released a formal public response detailing the specific objectives of the submarine drill.
READ: Endorsement Exodus: Maine Senate Nominee Graham Platner Urged to Quit Race After Assault Bombshell
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
