China has reportedly test-fired a nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean, according to state media Xinhua. The missile, launched from a PLA Navy strategic nuclear submarine, carried a simulated warhead and successfully struck its designated target area. Beijing described the launch as a routine annual drill conducted in line with international law and said relevant countries, including Australia and New Zealand, were notified in advance. However, Australia has strongly criticised the move, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong calling the test “destabilising” amid rising regional tensions. The development comes as concerns grow over military activity in the Indo-Pacific and the Taiwan Strait.
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