China confirms ballistic missile test, flexes nuclear capabilities
For the first time in several decades, China has officially confirmed the testing of an intercontinental ballistic missile, which was announced at a specially organized press conference. Although the missile carried a mock-up instead of a nuclear warhead, how the test was conducted suggests that China wants to emphasize its nuclear strike capabilities.
In a communiqué, Beijing stated that it carried out a "routine test" as part of its annual training schedule and assured that neighboring countries had been notified about the test.
Although no details were provided about the missile itself or the exact location where it landed, it is known that the missile was launched toward the ocean and fell into international waters.
This marks a significant change in China's ballistic missile testing program. Until now, taking advantage of the country's vast size, China tested such weapons over its territory, with the missiles landing within its missile ranges.
Despite lacking technical details, experts believe the tested missile is most likely the DF-41 (Dongfeng-41).
Weighing 177,000 pounds and measuring 72 feet, the missile has an estimated range of 8,000-9,000 miles and can carry up to eight MIRV sub-warheads. It can be launched from silos, wheeled mobile launchers, and special railway cars.
Chinese nuclear armament
The missile test fits into a broader context of the development of China's nuclear arsenal. For decades, China maintained modest strategic forces with only a few dozen warheads and limited delivery means, which was enough to ensure nuclear deterrence.
However, in recent years, there has been a period of intensive armament. In at least three bases, China is building hundreds of missile silos, modernizing submarines capable of carrying ballistic missiles, and working on the hard-to-detect H-20 strategic bomber.
Beijing's nuclear potential is currently estimated at around 500 warheads, but according to experts, by 2030, this could rise to as many as 1,000 nuclear warheads.
