China launched a nuclear-capable long-range missile with a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean on Monday as part of a routine military training program, according to Chinese state-owned media outlet Xinhua. The launch occurred at 12:01 p.m. local time and involved a submarine-launched ballistic missile from the People's Liberation Army Navy.
Xinhua reported that the missile test was a regular component of China's annual military exercises and that relevant countries had been notified in advance. The missile reportedly landed accurately in a designated area, and the operation was conducted in accordance with international law and practice, not targeting any specific country or entity.
Despite these assurances, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong criticized the action, stating that Australia views it as a destabilizing act in the region. She was among several ministers who received advance notification of the launch. Shadow foreign minister Ted O’Brien echoed this sentiment, calling the test "irresponsible" and unwelcome, particularly on the day Australia and Fiji formalized a new defense alliance.
This development follows the signing of the "Ocean of Peace Alliance" between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Rabuka on Monday. The alliance includes mutual defense obligations and is open to other Pacific nations.
The timing of China's missile test has led to speculation, with one source suggesting it was a response to the new Australia-Fiji defense pact. China's growing influence and security arrangements in the Pacific have been a point of concern for Australia and other regional players. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) noted that Beijing has expressed frustration with Australia's expanding network of security agreements aimed at curbing China's regional influence.
Australia has been actively strengthening its relationships in the Pacific. Prime Minister Albanese is also scheduled to visit the Solomon Islands to discuss a security deal and will attend the nation's Independence Day celebrations. Additionally, Australia recently finalized a deal with Vanuatu, the Nakamal Agreement, which includes a commitment from Vanuatu to prevent foreign military bases on its territory.
China's strategic presence in the Pacific is viewed by analysts not only as an effort to secure natural resources but also as a geostrategic move to challenge U.S. and allied influence in the region. China's earlier security agreement with the Solomon Islands in 2022 and diplomatic shifts from Taiwan to China by the Cook Islands, Kiribati, and the Solomon Islands have signaled Beijing's increasing assertiveness as a major strategic player in the Pacific.