China Tests Missile from Nuclear Submarine, Raising Concerns in Japan, Australia and New Zealand

International Desk | PNN

China has successfully tested a long-range ballistic missile launched from a nuclear-powered submarine in the Pacific Ocean. State media reported that the test was part of an annual military exercise conducted in designated sea areas.

The missile was launched from a nuclear submarine stationed in the southern Pacific at midday local time. Chinese authorities said the exercise was routine and not targeted at any specific country.

However, the test has raised concerns across the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said China had informed Australia in advance of the missile test but described the move as concerning for regional stability. She said China’s rapid military expansion and lack of transparency remain a concern for neighboring countries.

Japan also received advance notification. Tokyo urged China to reconsider the launch decision and expressed concern over its growing military activity. Japan’s coast guard was warned that debris from the missile could fall near its exclusive economic zone.

New Zealand said it was informed only hours before the launch. Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated that using the South Pacific as a testing ground for missile activity is not welcomed and raises security concerns for regional stability.

Analysts say the test reflects China’s continued military modernization and expanding maritime defense capabilities. With rising strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific, the incident is being closely monitored internationally.