China successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) carrying a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean, marking its first such test in over 40 years. The missile was launched at 08:44 local time (04:44 GMT) on Wednesday, according to Beijing's defense ministry. Officials described the test as part of "routine annual training" and confirmed that the missile landed in predetermined sea areas.

While the specific type of missile and its flight path were not disclosed, Chinese state media reported that neighboring countries had been informed in advance of the launch. Experts were surprised by Beijing's characterization of the test as "routine," given that the last recorded ICBM launch by China occurred in 1980.

This development comes amidst heightened tensions between China and Taiwan. Taiwan’s defense ministry has recently reported increased military activity from Beijing, including missile firing drills and frequent aircraft incursions near the island. These actions are widely seen as part of China's "greyzone warfare" strategy aimed at exerting pressure on the self-governed island, which Beijing claims as its own.

In a related context, China suspended nuclear arms control discussions with the United States in July, following continued U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. The People's Liberation Army's Rocket Force, responsible for China’s nuclear arsenal, has undergone leadership changes over the past year, with two top officials being replaced amid corruption allegations.

According to a recent Pentagon report, China has over 500 operational nuclear warheads, including around 350 ICBMs. The report also forecasts that China’s nuclear stockpile could exceed 1,000 warheads by 2030, still significantly fewer than the more than 5,000 warheads each held by the U.S. and Russia.