China announces test launch of ICBM with 'dummy warhead' into Pacific

First public missile test likely to heighten concerns over China’s growing nuclear arsenal.

China showcased its latest ICBMs during the 70th anniversary celebrations of the People's Republic in 2019 [Jason Lee/Reuters].

China announced the test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, the Ministry of Defence said. The missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was launched by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Rocket Force at 8:44 am (00:55 GMT) on Wednesday, landing in designated sea areas.

The ministry stated the launch was part of a "routine annual training plan" and not aimed at any specific country or target. While the weapon tested was not named, one of China’s most advanced ICBMs, the DF-41, capable of a 12,000-15,000 km (7,400-9,320 mile) range, was previously showcased during the 70th anniversary celebrations in 2019. Xinhua, China's state-run news agency, confirmed that relevant nations had been informed ahead of the test, but did not specify the missile's trajectory or precise impact zone.