Security analysts pointed out that the primary concern stems from the lack of transparency surrounding Beijing's rapidly expanding nuclear program.
"We, the US, have been putting pressure on China to agree to an arms control agreement, more transparency behind their nuclear program.
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They're not giving that to us, so it's definitely going to ratchet up the tension," one analyst said.
A Chinese navy statement confirmed that a nuclear submarine deployed the weapon, which carried a training simulation warhead and landed accurately within its designated sea zone.
Chinese officials maintained that the military exercise adhered strictly to established international frameworks and was not aimed at any specific country, describing it as "a routine part of China's annual military training, in accordance with international law and practice, and is not directed against any specific country or target."
The Chinese foreign ministry asserted that the appropriate nations were informed prior to the operation, which was carried out safely and professionally.
"Relevant countries were notified in advance, and it complies with international law and practice. The launch activity was conducted safely, systematically, and professionally throughout."
While the Chinese defense ministry withheld specific details about the weapon, state media indicated the system was likely a JL-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile, which has a range exceeding 10,000 kilometers.
"The launch reflected Beijing's shift from maintaining a minimum nuclear deterrent to developing a more coercive nuclear posture capable of influencing other countries' strategic decisions," said Su, a Chinese analyst.
Taiwanese security officials published a map indicating the missile's trajectory traveled southeast of China, crossing over the Philippines, Micronesia, and Palau, before landing south of Nauru.
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"These tests are usually organised months in advance and require a whole lot of things to fall into place," said David Capie, the director of the centre of strategic studies at Victoria University of Wellington.
